Workplace adversity and the dual impact of gender on employee intentions to leave and pursue social entrepreneurship
Journal
Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration
ISSN
1757-4323
Publisher
Emerald
Date Issued
2025-02-18
Author(s)
Rivas Mendoza, Milagros Isabel
Afshar Jahanshahi, Asghar
Pulido Joo, Luis Alexander
Mohammad Rashed Hasan Polas
Paredes Izaguirre, Luis Antonio
Espejo-Chacón, Luis Fernando
Type
text::journal::journal article
Abstract
Purpose: This study explores social entrepreneurship as a viable career path for employees facing hostile workplace conditions in Peru. It examines the gender-specific effects of workplace challenges such as hostility, discrimination and sexual harassment on individuals’ aspirations for career transitions and entrepreneurship. Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 450 Peruvian workers experiencing adverse workplace conditions. Quantitative data analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between perceived workplace challenges, intentions to leave current jobs and the propensity to pursue social entrepreneurship. Gender differences were analyzed to uncover unique patterns in these relationships. Findings: Results reveal significant gender differences: females report higher levels of discrimination, while males report higher perceptions of workplace harassment. Females intending to leave their jobs demonstrated a stronger inclination toward social entrepreneurship compared to their male counterparts. These findings underline the detrimental impact of hostile work environments on employee aspirations and highlight social entrepreneurship as a meaningful career option for individuals seeking to address societal issues. Practical implications: This research offers valuable insights for organizations and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of creating equitable work environments. It also underscores the potential of social entrepreneurship to empower individuals disillusioned by conventional workplace structures to drive positive social change. Originality/value: By elucidating the role of social entrepreneurship as an alternative career path, our study contributes to the growing body of literature on entrepreneurship and social impact, offering valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners aiming to foster more equitable and empowering work environments. ©The authors ©Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration ©Emerald.
License
Acceso Restringido
How to cite
Rivas Mendoza, M.I., Afshar Jahanshahi, A., Pulido Joo, L.A., Polas, M.R.H., Paredes Izaguirre, L.A. and Espejo-Chacón, L.F. (2025), "Workplace adversity and the dual impact of gender on employee intentions to leave and pursue social entrepreneurship", Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/APJBA-04-2024-0176