Examining Gender Differences in Entrepreneurial Intention in Japan: A Cognitive Perspective Using GEM Data

Abstract

Underpinned by cognitive approach theory, this study explores the effect of cognitive precursors, namely self-efficacy, role models, and fear of failure, on the intention of venture creation across genders in Japan. A quantitative design was employed using binary logistic regression. The analysis was conducted on a sample of 1,912 respondents, with male (N = 1,020) and female (N = 892) subsamples under the GEM study, and using a pooled model to compare the strength and direction of the variables across genders after accounting for the effects of demographic factors. The findings show that both self-efficacy and having role models were consistent and significant across models, with these cognitive factors being more significant within the female subsample. Contrary to the hypothesized effect, fear of venture failure did not negatively influence entrepreneurship intent and exhibited a surprising positive relationship for women. This research contributes to the gender-based entrepreneurship literature, whilst historically Japan remains strongly influenced by a gendered institutional environment, cognitive factors serve as a significant driver for women more than for men. In addition, the unexpected finding regarding the fear of venture failure provides insights into how the role of risk is perceived by a prospective female entrepreneur in the Japanese context.