Unpacking the Emotional Intelligence–Entrepreneurial Intentions Link: A Systematic Review of Mediators and Moderators

Unpacking the Emotional Intelligence–Entrepreneurial Intentions Link: A Systematic Review of Mediators and Moderators | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Systematic Review Unpacking the Emotional Intelligence–Entrepreneurial Intentions Link: A Systematic Review of Mediators and Moderators Joana Moreira, Orlando Lima Rua, Brais Suárez-Eiroa This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8020734/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 12 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract This study investigates the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), examining how mediators and moderators influence this dynamic across cultural and socioeconomic contexts. Using the SPAR-4-SLR protocol and ADO-TCM framework, this systematic review synthesizes findings from 18 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024. The study identifies and categorizes mediators and moderators affecting the EI–EInt relationship. Self-efficacy, creativity, and components of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control) consistently mediate the EI–EInt link. Cultural values, personality traits (e.g. proactivity, ambiguity tolerance), gender, and socioeconomic status significantly moderate this relationship, shaping its strength and direction. These findings offer insights for emotionally intelligent entrepreneurship education and policy design, supporting the development of self-efficacy, creativity and resilience in entrepreneurs. This review consolidates a fragmented field by offering a comprehensive, theory-driven framework of how EI influences EInt, highlighting context-sensitive mechanisms and identifying directions for future research. Business and commerce/Business and management Social science/Business and management Humanities/Cultural and media studies Social science/Cultural and media studies Business and commerce/Information systems and information technology Biological sciences/Psychology Social science/Psychology Emotional Intelligence Entrepreneurial Intentions Mediators Moderators Systematic Literature Review Figures Figure 1 Introduction Emotional Intelligence (EI) has emerged as a key psychological resource for Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), operating through mechanisms such as self-efficacy (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ), creativity (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Yıldırım et al., 2019 ), subjective norms (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Wahid et al., 2019 ), perceived behavioural control (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ), and optimism (Madar et al., 2019 ). These mechanisms foster entrepreneurial motivation, innovation, and resilience, enhancing individuals’ capacity to navigate uncertainty and identify opportunities (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). However, the strength and direction of the EI–EInt relationship vary across contexts, as cultural norms, personality traits, gender, and socioeconomic conditions moderate this connection (Miao et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). For instance, in collectivist cultures, EI fosters social cohesion and group alignment (Hussain et al., 2021 ), whereas in individualist settings, it encourages autonomy, initiative, and proactive behaviour (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Miao et al., 2017). Traits such as risk propensity, emotional stability, and ambiguity tolerance further influence how EI supports entrepreneurial decision-making (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). While entrepreneurial intentions are widely recognised as precursors to behaviour (Owoseni et al., 2021 ), prior research has prioritised cognitive antecedents—especially those rooted in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)—over the affective and regulatory dimensions inherent to EI (Miao et al., 2017; Wahid et al., 2019 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Yet, EI underpins critical entrepreneurial competencies, including opportunity recognition, persistence, adaptability, and interpersonal influence (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ), essential for navigating complex entrepreneurial ecosystems. Importantly, the EI–EInt dynamic is seldom linear, as while some studies report direct effects (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Zampetakis et al., 2009 ), others highlight indirect pathways through mediators such as self-efficacy, creativity, and perceived social support, as well as moderators like cultural values (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Hussain et al., 2021 ). This fragmented evidence has hindered the development of integrative models that explain how and under what conditions EI translates into entrepreneurial intentions and behaviour (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). This gap is particularly salient in entrepreneurship education and policy, where the transformative potential of EI remains underutilised—despite its relevance for inclusive, opportunity-driven ecosystems (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Tiwari et al., 2017b ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Moreover, previous reviews have not yet provided a systematic synthesis of how mediating and moderating factors jointly shape the EI–EInt relationship across entrepreneurial ecosystems. Addressing this theoretical gap is essential to develop more inclusive and emotionally grounded entrepreneurship education and policy (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Tiwari et al., 2017b ). Addressing this fragmentation, the present review systematically examines the psychological and contextual mechanisms through which EI influences EInt, with a focus on mediating and moderating variables. Based on 18 empirical studies published between 2000 and 2024, it consolidates dispersed findings into a cohesive analytical framework. Methodologically, it applies the SPAR-4-SLR protocol (Paul et al., 2021 ) to ensure rigour and transparency, and leverages the ADO-TCM framework to structure insights across antecedents, decisions, outcomes, theories, contexts, and methods. This review is guided by two research questions: RQ1. How does emotional intelligence influence entrepreneurial intentions? RQ2. Which mediating and moderating factors shape the EI–EInt relationship across diverse contexts? Theoretical background Emotional intelligence Emotional Intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognised as a core psychological resource for navigating the uncertainty and complexity inherent to entrepreneurship (Salovey & Mayer, 1990 ; Goleman, 1995 ; Bar-On, 1997 ). Defined as the capacity to perceive, understand, and regulate emotions in oneself and others (Salovey & Mayer, 1990 ), EI enables emotional awareness, self-control, and effective decision-making in dynamic environments (Miao et al., 2018 ). Three dominant models conceptualise EI from distinct yet complementary perspectives. The ability model (Mayer & Salovey, 1997 ) focuses on emotional perception, understanding, and regulation, associating these skills with adaptability, creativity, and resilience (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Goleman’s mixed model (1995) includes self-awareness, motivation, empathy, and social competence, linking EI to leadership and perseverance (Khalid et al., 2018 ). The trait model (Bar-On, 1997 ) emphasises intrapersonal awareness, stress management, and emotional stability—dimensions that support entrepreneurial judgement and coping (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). Despite their differences, all three models converge in positioning EI as a catalyst for key entrepreneurial competencies such as opportunity recognition, innovation, and interpersonal influence (Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Empirical findings consistently link EI with enhanced self-efficacy and creativity, reinforcing its centrality in the development of entrepreneurial behaviours (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). In response, entrepreneurship education has increasingly incorporated EI-focused interventions aimed at strengthening emotional regulation, social awareness, and resilience (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). EI thus emerges as a multidimensional construct that shapes the interplay between emotional and cognitive processes across entrepreneurial contexts (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). By fostering adaptability and relational capacity, EI enhances both the confidence and strategic orientation needed to transform ideas into entrepreneurial action (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Entrepreneurial intentions Emotional Intelligence (EI) is closely aligned with the psychological underpinnings of Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), given its influence on cognition, motivation, and self-regulation (Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). EInt refer to the cognitive and motivational processes that prompt individuals to consider and engage in entrepreneurial activity, marking the first stage in the journey (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Closely linked to opportunity recognition, innovation, and perseverance in uncertain environments, EInt are consistently regarded as robust predictors of entrepreneurial behaviour (Newman et al., 2019 ). Two foundational theories underpin the conceptualisation of EInt: the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) (Ajzen, 1991 ) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) (Bandura, 1986 ). According to TPB, entrepreneurial intentions are shaped by attitudes toward the behaviour, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control (Ajzen, 1991 ; Kautonen et al., 2021 ). The latter is strongly associated with Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE), which reflects an individual’s belief in their ability to successfully perform entrepreneurial tasks (Schlaegel et al., 2021 ; Newman et al., 2019 ). SCT (Bandura, 1986 ) complements this perspective by highlighting the role of personal agency, self-reflection, resilience, and social modelling in shaping entrepreneurial motivation (Miao et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). In addition to self-efficacy, psychological traits such as achievement motivation, internal locus of control, and risk-taking propensity contribute significantly to entrepreneurial decision-making and opportunity evaluation under uncertainty (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). External factors—particularly entrepreneurship education, creativity, and experiential learning—also play a crucial role in fostering EInt and strengthening ESE (Schlaegel et al., 2021 ). Cultural values and social norms further moderate how entrepreneurship is perceived and pursued, as in collectivist cultures, EInt are often associated with prosocial and community-oriented goals, whereas in individualist societies, autonomy and personal achievement are predominant motivators (Kautonen et al., 2021 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Schlaegel et al., 2021 ). Framing EInt as a multidimensional construct allows for a deeper understanding of how EI interacts with cognitive, emotional, and contextual variables through complex mediating and moderating mechanisms (Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). This perspective lays the conceptual foundation for the present review, which aims to systematically examine how Emotional Intelligence influences Entrepreneurial Intentions through mediators and moderators. The following chapter outlines the methodological procedures adopted to ensure rigour, transparency, and analytical depth. Methodology This study adopts the SPAR-4-SLR framework (Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews) proposed by Paul et al. ( 2021 ) to ensure methodological rigour and transparency. This structured protocol provides a robust foundation for systematically exploring the mediating and moderating mechanisms that characterise the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt). The review follows three iterative phases—Assembling, Arranging, and Assessing—which guide the identification, organisation, and synthesis of relevant empirical studies. During the Assembling phase, articles were retrieved from Web of Science and Scopus using the keywords "emotional intelligence" AND "entrepren* intention*" for the period 2000 to 2024. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 peer-reviewed empirical studies were selected. Figure 1 illustrates the methodological process, including the steps taken for database selection, screening, and refinement of the final dataset. To deepen the analytical insight, the ADO-TCM framework is applied in parallel. This model organises findings across three substantive domains—Antecedents, Decisions, and Outcomes (ADO)—and three structural dimensions—Theories, Contexts, and Methods (TCM). When combined with the SPAR-4-SLR structure, this dual-framework approach enables a multidimensional analysis of the EI–EInt nexus, supporting the identification of patterns, methodological variety, and underexplored contextual influences. Combined, these frameworks enable a more nuanced classification of mediators—such as self-efficacy, creativity, and resilience—and moderators—including cultural values, personality traits, gender, and socioeconomic background. This methodological design ensures clarity, replicability, and conceptual depth throughout the review, forming a solid foundation for the synthesis presented in the subsequent chapters. Results Table 1 provides an overview of the methodological designs and theoretical frameworks adopted across the 18 empirical studies included in this review. Quantitative approaches predominated, with Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) being the most frequently used method to examine the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Cross-sectional designs were most common (Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ), while qualitative studies were less frequent and often lacked depth, particularly in theory integration and coding transparency (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). Geographically, most studies were conducted in emerging economies, such as India, Nigeria, and Malaysia, where entrepreneurship is promoted as a tool for economic development and social inclusion (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Othman & Muda, 2018 ; Kanonuhwa et al., 2018 ). In contrast, studies from developed economies or rural regions were limited, reducing generalizability across entrepreneurial ecosystems (Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). Beyond geographical distribution, thematic focus also varied, with several studies exploring specialized domains of entrepreneurship, including social, digital, and sustainability-driven ventures (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). These incorporated constructs such as empathy, moral obligation, emotional self-regulation, and values-based leadership (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Hussain et al., 2021 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ). Other studies examined how EI supports strategic behavior in volatile environments, with emphasis on adaptability, creativity, and emotional resilience (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Regarding sample composition, most studies focused on university students, typically from business, economics, or engineering backgrounds (Miao et al., 2018 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). Longitudinal and cross-cultural studies were notably scarce (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Zampetakis et al., 2009 ). Student samples were primarily used due to methodological convenience, though this narrow demographic scope raised concerns about ecological validity and generalizability (Miao et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). These patterns highlight preferences in methodology, geography, and sample composition while also identifying key gaps in the current literature, such as the lack of longitudinal and ecosystem-based approaches. Recognizing these gaps, the next section provides an overview of the mediating and moderating mechanisms identified in the reviewed studies, which influence the relationship between EI and EInt. Table 1 Overview of the articles’ sample Title of the Article Authors and Year Type of Article Keywords Theories Used Context Mediators and Moderators Methodology Main Contributions An Empirical Analysis of the Factors Affecting Social Entrepreneurial Intentions Tiwari, Bhat, and Tikoria ( 2017a ) Empirical Study EI, Social EInt, Creativity, Moral Obligation Theory of Planned Behaviour Indian university students Attitude, Subjective Norms, Perceived Behavioural Control Survey (n = 390) with SEM Identifies EI and creativity as predictors of social EInt, with a focus on factors influencing social entrepreneurship Collective Impact of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy and Risk Propensity on Entrepreneurial Intentions: Mediating Role of Perceived Social Support Khalid, Bashir, and Saqib ( 2018 ) Empirical Study EI, Perceived Social Support, Self-Efficacy, EInt, Risk Propensity Social Cognitive Theory, Theory of Planned Behaviour Pakistani business students Perceived Social Support Survey (n = 260) with regression analysis Demonstrates how self-efficacy and risk propensity are moderated by social support, affecting EInt Developing Students’ Social Entrepreneurial Intention Darmanto and Pujiarti ( 2020 ) Empirical Study EI, Social EInt, Self-Efficacy Career Development Theory Indonesian university students Social Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy SEM analysis (n = 125) Highlights the role of self-efficacy in social EInt, emphasizing the influence of social and educational experiences Effect of Emotional Intelligence and Cognitive Flexibility on Entrepreneurial Intention: Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy Mishra and Singh ( 2022 ) Empirical Study EI, Cognitive Flexibility, EInt, Self-Efficacy Cognitive Flexibility Theory Indian engineering students Self-Efficacy Cross-sectional survey (n = 635) Shows that EI and cognitive flexibility enhance EInt, with self-efficacy acting as a mediator Effects of Emotional Intelligence on Entrepreneurial Intention and Self-Efficacy Mortan, Ripoll, Carvalho, and Bernal ( 2014 ) Empirical Study EI, EInt, Self-Efficacy, Personality Traits Big Five Personality Traits Spanish and Portuguese university students Self-Efficacy Survey (n = 394) with hierarchical regression Finds EI positively impacts self-efficacy, which in turn influences EInt; notes differences based on personality traits Emotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Intention Among University Undergraduates in Nigeria Nwibe and Ogbuanya (2021) Empirical Study EI, Self-Efficacy, EInt Theory of Planned Behaviour, Shapero’s Entrepreneurial Event Model Nigerian undergraduates Self-Efficacy Correlational survey (n = 387); SEM and regression analysis Highlights EI’s influence on EInt via self-efficacy, with educational context considerations Emotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Intentions: An Exploratory Meta-Analysis Miao, Humphrey, Qian, and Pollack (2018) Meta-analysis EI, EInt, Cultural Dimensions Fit Theory, Trait Activation Theory Cross-cultural, multi-study analysis Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Meta-analysis of 12 studies with 3,578 participants Confirms a positive correlation between EI and EInt, with cultural dimensions moderating this relationship Factors Affecting Entrepreneurial Intentions Among Students in Higher Education Institutions Al-Tekreeti, Al Khasawneh and Dandis (2024) Empirical Study EI, Creativity, Entrepreneurial Motivation, EInt Social Cognitive Theory University students in Jordan Entrepreneurial Motivation, Creativity Survey with PLS analysis(n = 745) Motivation and creativity strongly predict EInt, with EI indirectly influencing motivation How Are Entrepreneurial Intentions Affected by Emotional Intelligence and Creativity Yıldırım, Trout and Hartzell ( 2019 ) Empirical Study EI, Creativity, EInt EI Theory by Salovey and Mayer, Goleman’s EI Model Graduate students in the USA Problem Solving Skills; Emotional Self Awareness; Impulse Control; Interpersonal Relations; Creativity Survey (n = 399) using a 5-point Likert scale; SEM for hypothesis testing Finds that problem-solving and impulse control positively impact entrepreneurial and creative intentions On the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Attitudes and Intentions Zampetakis, Kafetsios, Bouranta, Dewett and Moustakis ( 2009 ) Empirical Study Creative Thinking, Entrepreneurialism, Personality Theory of Planned Behaviour, Trait EI framework University students in Greece across business, engineering, and science fields Creativity, Proactivity, Attitudes towards entrepreneurship, Emotional Self-Efficacy SEM based on a survey (n = 280) Shows that EI indirectly influences intentions via creativity and proactivity, which positively impact attitudes toward entrepreneurship Optimism and Entrepreneurial Intentions Among Students: The Mediating Role of Emotional Intelligence Kela Madar, Teeni-Harari, Icekson and Sela (2019) Empirical Study EInt, Dispositional Optimism, EI Entrepreneurial Event Model, Theory of Planned Behaviour Israeli university students EI Survey-based study (n = 227) using SEM Finds that EI mediates the relationship between optimism and EInt, suggesting that optimistic individuals may leverage EI in entrepreneurial contexts The association between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurship as a career choice: A study on university students in South Africa Kanonuhwa, Rungani and Chimucheka (2018) Empirical Study EI, Entrepreneurship, Career Choice EI Theory, Entrepreneurial Intention Models South African students in the Eastern Cape EI Survey (n = 385); multiple regression and correlation analysis The study found that emotional intelligence, particularly emotion regulation, strongly predicts entrepreneurial intention, suggesting the importance of integrating emotional intelligence training into entrepreneurship education. The contribution of emotional intelligence and spirituality in understanding creativity and entrepreneurial intention of higher education students Rodrigues, Jorge, Pires and António ( 2019 ) Empirical Study Spirituality, EI, Creativity, EInt, Perceived Behavioural Control Theory of Planned Behaviour Portuguese higher education students Attitudes toward entrepreneurship, Perceived Behavioural Control, Creativity Survey (n = 345); path analysis for hypothesis testing Shows that EI enhances creativity and entrepreneurial intentions through perceived control, while spirituality has minimal effect The Role of Emotional Intelligence and Self-Efficacy on Social Entrepreneurial Attitudes and Social Entrepreneurial Intentions Tiwari, Bhat and Tikoria ( 2017b ) Empirical Study EI, Self-Efficacy, Attitudes, Social EInt Theory of Reasoned Action, Social Cognitive Theory Indian undergraduate students Attitude, Subjective norms; EI, Self- Efficacy Survey (n = 230) with systematic random sampling Establishes a framework using the theory of reasoned action to measure SEIs, showing how emotional intelligence and self-efficacy impact social entrepreneurial intentions The role of individual variables as antecedents of entrepreneurship processes: Emotional intelligence and self-efficacy López-Núñez, Rubio-Valdehita and Díaz-Ramiro ( 2022 ) Empirical Study EInt, EI, Self-Efficacy, Personality, Individual Differences Theory of Planned Behaviour, Social Cognitive Theory, Basic Intentions-based progress model Spanish college students across various academic disciplines Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE), Personality Traits, Demographic Variables (Gender, Age) Cross-sectional design; regression analysis of a survey (n = 1,593) Emotional intelligence (EI) influences entrepreneurial intention; Entrepreneurial self-efficacy mediates the relationship between EI and intention Trait Emotional Intelligence and Social Entrepreneurial Intentions: Multi-Mediators Analysis Wan Hussain, Mohd Wahid, Ayob, and Ismail (2021) Empirical Study Social Entrepreneurship Intention, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Trait EI Theory of Planned Behaviour Malaysian students Attitudes toward Social Entrepreneurship, Subjective Norms, Perceived Behavioural Control Survey (n = 419) using SEM (AMOS) The study concludes that trait emotional intelligence indirectly influences social entrepreneurial intentions, acting through mediating factors: subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, rather than having a direct effect. Twinkle twinkle little star how subjective norm mediates so far Formation of social entrepreneurship intention in Malaysia Mohd Wahid, Ayob, and Wan Hussain (2019) Empirical Study Social Entrepreneurship Intention, Trait EI, Subjective Norm Theory of Reasoned Action Malaysian students focused on social entrepreneurship Subjective Norm Cross-sectional study (n = 480); SEM (AMOS) The study finds that subjective norms partially mediate the relationship between trait emotional intelligence and students' intentions toward social entrepreneurship with as insignificant direct effect of trait EI in social entrepreneurial intention. Will Emotional Intelligence Predict Entrepreneurial Intentions? Owoseni, Mayungbo, Olatunji and Okunola ( 2021 ) Empirical Study EI, Entrepreneurs, EInt Goleman’s EI Model Nigerian university students EI dimensions Exploratory survey (n = 200); SPSS for analysis The results showed that emotional intelligence collectively predicted entrepreneurial intention; however, among its dimensions, only motivation independently predicted entrepreneurial intention in the study participants. Relationship patterns between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial intentions The reviewed studies consistently demonstrate that Emotional Intelligence (EI) significantly shapes Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) through core psychological mechanisms such as emotional regulation, decision-making, resilience, and creativity (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Individuals with higher levels of EI exhibit greater adaptability, problem-solving ability, and opportunity recognition, particularly in uncertain and dynamic environments (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Owoseni et al., 2021 ). Among these mechanisms, Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE) emerges as the most consistently cited mediator, linking emotional competencies to entrepreneurial confidence and goal-oriented behaviour (Miao et al., 2018 ; Nwibe & Ogbuanya, 2024). Creativity, similarly, fostered by EI, facilitates opportunity recognition and innovative thinking (Yıldırım et al., 2019 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). These mediating pathways are grounded in Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986 ) and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991 ), which explain how personal agency, perceived control, and behavioural intentions drive entrepreneurial action (Schlaegel et al., 2021 ). Contextual moderators further condition this relationship as in collectivist cultures, EI fosters social cohesion and empathy-driven entrepreneurship (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Hussain et al., 2021 ), whereas in individualist contexts it promotes autonomy, strategic initiative, and self-direction (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Miao et al., 2018 ). Educational attainment and socioeconomic context also influence how emotional competencies are translated into entrepreneurial action (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Kanonuhwa et al., 2018 ). In cognitively demanding or high-risk settings, the impact of EI may depend on complementary traits such as confidence, proactivity, and tolerance for ambiguity (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Nwibe & Ogbuanya, 2024; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). These interactions underscore the conditional, non-linear nature of the EI–EInt dynamic. Together, these findings highlight a multifactorial and context-sensitive relationship, in which emotional competencies interact with individual and environmental variables to shape entrepreneurial intentions. The next sections examine in greater depth the key mediators and moderators structuring this relationship across diverse empirical contexts. Analysis of mediators and moderators Table 2 presents an overview of the mediating and moderating variables identified across the reviewed studies. Among the mediators, self-efficacy consistently emerges as the most frequently cited, functioning as a central psychological mechanism through which Emotional Intelligence (EI) influences Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Emotionally intelligent individuals tend to demonstrate greater confidence, persistence, and capacity to manage uncertainty—key attributes that reinforce entrepreneurial decision-making (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; Nwibe & Ogbuanya, 2024). Other frequently reported mediators include creativity, perceived behavioural control, and subjective norms (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Miao et al., 2018 ). Creativity plays a particularly salient role, enabling the transformation of emotional competencies into innovative thinking and opportunity recognition, especially under dynamic or uncertain conditions (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Yıldırım et al., 2019 ; Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). These mediating pathways are grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991 ) and Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986 ), which highlight the influence of personal agency, perceived control, and efficacy on behavioural outcomes (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Additional mediators such as emotional self-awareness, moral obligation, and entrepreneurial motivation emerge in more specific contexts, particularly within social or sustainability-oriented entrepreneurship (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Nwibe & Bakare, 2022). According to these authors, these mechanisms suggest that EI contributes not only to cognitive and affective processing but also to ethical decision-making and prosocial engagement. As for moderators, the literature identifies personality traits, demographic factors, cultural values, and socioeconomic background as key variables influencing the strength and direction of the EI–EInt relationship (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). These contextual influences confirm that the EI–EInt link is neither linear nor universal, but contingent upon both individual dispositions and environmental settings (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). Together, these findings underscore the necessity of considering both internal psychological mechanisms and external contextual conditions when analysing how EI affects entrepreneurial intention. The next section explores these mediating and moderating dynamics in greater detail, offering a more refined view of the EI–EInt relationship. Table 2 Summary of mediators and moderators in the relationship between EI and EInt Construct Mediator/ Moderator Authors Self-Efficacy Mediator Khalid et al. ( 2018 ); Darmanto and Pujiarti ( 2020 ); Mishra and Singh ( 2022 ); Mortan et al. ( 2014 ); Nwibe and Ogbuanya (2024); Zampetakis et al. ( 2009 ); Tiwari et al. ( 2017a ); Nwibe and Bakare (2022); López-Núñez et al. ( 2022 ); Tiwari et al. ( 2017b ) Creativity Mediator Tiwari et al. ( 2017a ); Al-Tekreeti and Dandis ( 2023 ); Yildirim et al. (2019); Rodrigues et al. ( 2019 ); Zampetakis et al. ( 2009 ) Perceived Behaviour Control Mediator Tiwari et al. ( 2017a ); Darmanto and Pujiarti ( 2020 ); Rodrigues et al. ( 2019 ); Hussain et al. (2020) Subjective Norms Mediator Tiwari Et Al. ( 2017a ); Darmanto and Pujiarti ( 2020 ); Wahid Et Al. ( 2019 ); Hussain et al. ( 2021 ) Attitudes Toward Behaviour Mediator Tiwari et al. ( 2017a ); Darmanto and Pujiarti ( 2020 ); Zampetakis et al. ( 2009 ); Nwibe and Bakare (2022); Rodrigues et al. ( 2019 ); Tiwari Et Al. ( 2017b ); Hussain et al. ( 2021 ) Demographic Variables Moderator Mishra and Singh ( 2022 ); Mortan et al. ( 2014 ); López-Núñez et al. ( 2022 ) Risk Taking Propensity Mediator Khalid Et Al. ( 2018 ); Mishra and Singh ( 2022 ) Proactive Behaviour Mediator Zampetakis Et Al. ( 2009 ); Tiwari Et Al. (2017) Personality Traits Moderator Mortan et al. ( 2014 ); López-Núñez et al. ( 2022 ) Dispositional Optimism Mediator Madar Et Al. ( 2019 ); Problem-Solving Mediator Yildirim Et Al. (2019) Need For Achievement Mediator Mishra And Singh ( 2022 ) Internal Locus of Control Mediator Mishra And Singh ( 2022 ) Moral Obligation Mediator Tiwari Et Al. (2017) Perceived Social Support Mediator Khalid Et Al. ( 2018 ) Cognitive Flexibility Mediator Mishra And Singh ( 2022 ) Innovativeness Mediator Mishra And Singh ( 2022 ) Perseverance Mediator Mishra And Singh ( 2022 ) Cultural Dimensions of Hofstede Moderator Miao Et Al. ( 2018 ) Entrepreneurial Motivation Mediator Al-Tekreeti and Dandis ( 2023 ) Emotional Self Awareness Mediator Yildirim Et Al. (2019) Impulse Control Mediator Yildirim Et Al. (2019) Interpersonal Relations Mediator Yildirim Et Al. (2019) Perceived Feasibility Mediator Nwibe and Bakare (2022) Spirituality Mediator Rodrigues et al. ( 2019 ) Key mediators in the EI-EInt relationship The reviewed studies indicate that the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) is mediated by a range of psychological and cognitive variables (Wahid et al., 2019 ). The most frequently reported mediators include self-efficacy, creativity, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes toward entrepreneurship (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Self-efficacy has been identified as the most consistently observed mediator (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ), with studies reporting positive associations between EI and entrepreneurial confidence, motivation, and resilience (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). These findings are frequently situated within the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Social Cognitive Theory, which highlight the influence of self-efficacy on perceived behavioural control and entrepreneurial agency (Ajzen, 1991 ; Bandura, 1986 ; Schlaegel et al., 2021 ). Cultural variations in self-efficacy were noted across collectivist and individualist contexts (Miao et al., 2018 ; Tiwari et al., 2017b ). Creativity also plays a key mediating role in several studies (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Yıldırım et al., 2019 ; Mortan et al., 2014 ; Zampetakis et al., 2009 ). EI supports creative ideation, problem-solving, and opportunity recognition, especially in uncertain environments. Some studies highlight joint effects of creativity and self-efficacy on entrepreneurial action (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Miao et al., 2018 ). Other frequently cited mediators include perceived behavioural control (PBC), subjective norms, and attitudes toward entrepreneurship. PBC was discussed within the TPB framework, with emotional competencies such as stress management and strategic awareness linked to higher levels of perceived control in volatile environments (Ajzen, 1991 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ). Subjective norms were especially relevant in collectivist cultures, where emotional regulation enables responsiveness to social expectations (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Wahid et al., 2019 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). Attitudes toward entrepreneurship were associated with more favourable perceptions of risk and reduced fear of failure, often influenced by optimism and emotional adaptability (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Beyond the most recurrent mediators, the literature also identifies constructs such as risk-taking propensity, proactive behaviour, dispositional optimism, internal locus of control, and need for achievement (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Madar et al., 2019 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). These traits reflect motivational and dispositional drivers through which EI enhances entrepreneurial orientation (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Context-specific mediators were found in studies on social, sustainability, and culturally embedded entrepreneurship, including mediators as moral obligation, perceived social support, entrepreneurial motivation, and spirituality (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Nwibe & Bakare, 2022). Other studies highlight the role of cognitive flexibility in adapting to environmental uncertainty and perseverance in sustaining entrepreneurial effort (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). Emotional self-awareness, impulse control, and interpersonal relations were also noted as mediators linked to emotional regulation and social functioning (Yıldırım et al., 2019 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). Taken together, these mediators illuminate the internal processes through which EI enhances entrepreneurial cognition, confidence, and persistence—dimensions that unfold differently depending on contextual and dispositional moderators, as discussed in the next section. Key moderators in the EI-EInt relationship The relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) is shaped by several moderators, which vary depending on individual attributes and environmental contexts (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). These moderators influence the strength or direction of the EI–EInt relationship. The most frequently reported moderators are demographic variables, personality traits, cultural values, entrepreneurial education, and socioeconomic status (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Wahid et al., 2019 ; Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). Demographic factors such as age, gender, and educational level impact how EI influences the development of EInt (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). According to these authors, younger individuals, for example, who score high on EI, often exhibit stronger emotional adaptability and a greater inclination towards entrepreneurial learning. In contrast, older participants typically show more consistent emotional regulation and a longer-term goal orientation, enhancing their entrepreneurial drive (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Moreover, educational attainment strengthens the link between EI and EInt by improving decision-making abilities and access to critical knowledge (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Gender has been examined in several studies with varying results, as for example, female participants with high EI, particularly in socially oriented contexts, often demonstrate increased confidence and motivation to pursue entrepreneurial goals (Wahid et al., 2019 ; Nwibe & Bakare, 2022). On the other hand, male participants were found to show a stronger connection between EI and opportunity-driven intentions, with EI acting as a significant driver for goal-oriented entrepreneurial activities (Mortan et al., 2014 ). When it comes to personality traits, studies consistently report that these characteristics are influential moderators of the EI–EInt relationship (Mortan et al., 2014 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Traits such as conscientiousness, emotional stability, and openness to experience determine how EI influences entrepreneurial action, as individuals with high EI and a proactive or optimistic profile are especially likely to channel their emotional awareness into intentional, action-oriented entrepreneurial behaviours (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Cultural values, particularly those rooted in individualism versus collectivism, also moderate the EI–EInt relationship, as in collectivist cultures, EI facilitates alignment with social expectations and group cohesion, fostering community-driven entrepreneurship (Miao et al., 2018 ). According to these authors, in individualistic contexts, EI is more strongly associated with autonomy, proactivity, and strategic initiative, leading to a focus on individual entrepreneurial efforts. Entrepreneurial education has been identified as a crucial moderator in several studies, as exposure to both formal and informal entrepreneurial training significantly enhances the effect of EI on entrepreneurial intentions, particularly by boosting self-efficacy, perceived feasibility, and opportunity recognition (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Such training supports the application of emotional competencies in real-world entrepreneurial scenarios (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). In contexts marked by vulnerability or structural constraints, socioeconomic background plays a moderating role in the EI–EInt relationship (Wahid et al., 2019 ; Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). According to them, individuals with high EI tend to demonstrate stronger entrepreneurial intentions and perceived control, even when external support is lacking. Several studies have also highlighted combined moderating effects, where two or more factors, such as gender and education, or personality and culture, interact to influence how EI shapes entrepreneurial intentions (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). The next section explores the emerging patterns and trends that arise from these moderators, highlighting how Emotional Intelligence interacts with evolving forms of entrepreneurial intention across diverse contexts. Key emerging patterns and trends The reviewed studies reveal consistent patterns in the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), underscoring the role of EI in facilitating behaviours and opportunity recognition. Core emotional competencies—such as resilience, creativity, and adaptability—emerge as key enablers of EInt, particularly in contexts of uncertainty and limited resources (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Mortan et al., 2014 ; Yıldırım et al., 2019 ). These capacities allow individuals to navigate complex environments, sustaining motivation and intentional action. A notable trend involves the influence of cultural and personality-based moderators (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). In collectivist cultures, EI tends to foster empathy and community-oriented entrepreneurship, reinforcing group cohesion and prosocial behaviour (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). In individualistic contexts, EI supports autonomy, innovation, and proactive goal pursuit. Personality traits such as extraversion, openness, and emotional stability further modulate how EI translates into entrepreneurial outcomes (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). A second emerging pattern is the growing relevance of Social Entrepreneurial Intentions (SEIs) (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ; Wahid et al., 2019 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). In this domain, EI contributes not only to opportunity recognition and emotional regulation, but also to prosocial values—such as empathy and moral obligation—which drive ventures with social impact. SEIs are particularly prominent in Southeast Asia and Southern Europe, where entrepreneurship is often framed as a mechanism for social inclusion and collective well-being (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). The third pattern concerns the role of EI in fostering entrepreneurial inclusion and resilience among marginalised or resource-constrained populations (Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ; Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). In such contexts, individuals with high EI exhibit stronger perceived control and sustained intention strength, even in the absence of external support. EI thus acts as a compensatory resource, enabling adaptive responses to adversity and promoting opportunity development under structural constraints. A fourth trend is the integration of EI into entrepreneurship education. Several studies emphasise the importance of embedding emotional competencies—such as regulation, interpersonal awareness, and reflection—into learning environments to enhance entrepreneurial readiness (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Experiential approaches such as mentoring, scenario-based learning, and design thinking foster self-efficacy, creativity, and resilience, particularly among youth and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. A fifth trend highlights the relevance of EI in digital entrepreneurship. Emotional competencies support self-regulation in fast-paced environments and enable effective virtual team management (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). EI also facilitates the development of emotionally resonant, user-centric solutions that are vital for technology-driven ventures (Tiwari et al., 2017a ), enhancing innovation in digital ecosystems. Despite these contributions, methodological limitations persist. Many studies rely on cross-sectional designs, student samples, and self-report measures, constraining generalisability and longitudinal insight (Miao et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). Moreover, the predominance of data from emerging economies limits the broader applicability of findings to mature ecosystems. Collectively, these patterns offer a foundation for future research and theoretical development. The next section explores how EI shapes entrepreneurial intentions across diverse cultural and contextual settings. Discussion Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) arise from the dynamic interplay between individual attributes and contextual conditions (Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Emotional Intelligence (EI), understood as a multidimensional capacity, enhances individuals’ ability to regulate emotions, cope with uncertainty, and recognise entrepreneurial opportunities—skills that are particularly valuable in volatile and complex environments (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Anchored in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991 ) and Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986 ), this systematic review examines how EI influences EInt both directly and indirectly—through a range of psychological mechanisms—and how this relationship is conditioned by cultural, personal, and socioeconomic factors (Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Building on the evidence mapped in Chap. 4, the discussion now turns to a critical interpretation of these findings. The analysis begins by critically examining the core relational patterns observed between EI and EInt, followed by a detailed exploration of the mechanisms that mediate this relationship, the moderators that shape it, and the emerging themes that point to promising avenues for future research and practice. Relationship patterns between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial intentions Empirical evidence consistently reveals a positive association between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), indicating that individuals with higher emotional competencies tend to exhibit stronger entrepreneurial motivation, adaptability, and perceived capacity to act under uncertainty (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). This association is theoretically supported by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991 ), particularly through the dimensions of perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes toward entrepreneurship. Individuals with elevated EI are more likely to perceive entrepreneurship as both desirable and attainable, owing to their enhanced emotional regulation, empathy, and social awareness (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). These emotional competencies contribute to shaping positive entrepreneurial attitudes, aligning personal values with social expectations, and reinforcing the perception of behavioural control. In parallel, Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986 ) underscores the role of self-efficacy and personal agency, both of which are reinforced by emotionally intelligent self-reflection, vicarious learning, and adaptive coping strategies (Tiwari et al., 2017a ). These mechanisms enable individuals to believe in their capacity to successfully initiate and sustain entrepreneurial actions, especially in volatile environments. Nonetheless, research also indicates that in highly uncertain or high-risk contexts, EI alone may be insufficient to activate entrepreneurial intentions (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Nwibe & Ogbuanya, 2024; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Under such conditions, complementary factors—such as creativity, proactive behaviour, and perceived feasibility—gain prominence, highlighting the complexity and multifactorial nature of the EI–EInt relationship (Hussain et al., 2021 ; Nwibe & Ogbuanya, 2024). This integrative view suggests that while EI provides a critical foundation for emotional adaptation, its effect on intention formation depends on the interaction with cognitive, dispositional, and contextual elements that enable opportunity engagement and behavioural execution. Role of mediators in the EI-EInt relationship The connection between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) is shaped by internal mechanisms that determine how individuals interpret emotions, evaluate opportunities, and commit to entrepreneurial action (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). This review confirms that EI does not operate in isolation but rather through key mediating variables encompassing cognitive, emotional, motivational, and social processes (Wahid et al., 2019 ; Miao et al., 2018 ). While self-efficacy, creativity, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes toward behaviour are the most frequently studied mediators (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ), several other constructs further clarify how emotional competencies shape EInt. Self-efficacy consistently emerges as the most robust mediator. Emotionally intelligent individuals tend to exhibit greater entrepreneurial confidence as they regulate emotions, manage uncertainty, and pursue goals with persistence (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). This aligns with Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986 ) and with the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991 ), where self-efficacy enhances perceived behavioural control. Creativity, as a cognitive-affective bridge, facilitates opportunity recognition and problem-solving, supported by emotional regulation and self-awareness (Yıldırım et al., 2019 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). Perceived behavioural control reflects individuals’ belief in their capacity to act and is strengthened by stress regulation and adaptability (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ). Subjective norms translate emotional atonement into responsiveness to social expectations, particularly in collectivist settings (Wahid et al., 2019 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). Attitudes toward entrepreneurship are shaped by optimism, emotional clarity, and value alignment, reinforcing perceptions of entrepreneurship as desirable and achievable (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Additional mechanisms expand this picture. Risk-taking propensity and proactive behaviour illustrate how EI energises action under uncertainty (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Zampetakis et al., 2009 ), while dispositional optimism fosters perseverance through positive expectations (Madar et al., 2019 ). Problem-solving ability, grounded in emotional regulation, enhances adaptability and strategic thinking (Yıldırım et al., 2019 ). These findings underscore the role of EI as a dynamic enabler of behavioural strategies reinforcing EInt. Motivational and internal drivers further mediate this relationship. Need for achievement and internal locus of control reflect personal drive and belief in agency, both supported by EI (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Moral obligation, though less explored, connects emotional competence to ethical commitment (Tiwari et al., 2017a ), while perceived social support is particularly relevant in collectivist or low-resource settings (Khalid et al., 2018 ). Cognitive flexibility and innovativeness reflect EI’s role in adapting to novelty and generating ideas (Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Perseverance sustains long-term effort under emotionally demanding conditions (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ), and entrepreneurial motivation, though sometimes seen as an outcome, also mediates the link between emotional clarity and intention (Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). Finally, emotional self-awareness, impulse control, and interpersonal relations represent micro-level mechanisms through which EI supports interpersonal balance and emotional stability in entrepreneurial contexts (Yıldırım et al., 2019 ). Spirituality, although less studied, provides a value-based channel linking emotional meaning to prosocial entrepreneurial goals (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ), particularly in social entrepreneurship. In culturally embedded settings, spirituality not only aligns with prosocial motives but also enhances emotional coherence, contributing to a sense of purpose that reinforces long-term entrepreneurial commitment (Nwibe & Bakare, 2022). These underexplored mediators warrant greater attention in contexts such as social entrepreneurship, where moral salience and emotional purpose often underpin venture creation (Tiwari et al., 2017b ). These mediators offer a multidimensional view of how EI translates into entrepreneurial intentions. Rather than a single linear path, the evidence suggests interdependent and context-specific mechanisms (Miao et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). This supports the integration of TPB and SCT as complementary frameworks while highlighting the need to explore underexamined mediators—such as moral obligation, spirituality, or impulse control—especially in culturally diverse or impact-driven contexts. The following section examines how these emotionally driven mechanisms interact with external conditions, focusing on the moderating role of personality traits, cultural norms, gender, education, and socioeconomic background in the EI–EInt dynamic. Role of moderators in the EI-EInt relationship The impact of Emotional Intelligence (EI) on Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) varies considerably depending on moderating variables that influence the strength, direction, and context of this relationship (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). The empirical studies reviewed cluster these moderators into three main categories: personality traits, sociocultural factors, and structural-demographic conditions. Personality traits—particularly openness, conscientiousness, proactivity, and emotional stability—consistently moderate how EI translates into entrepreneurial cognition and behaviour (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Individuals high in both EI and openness or proactivity are more likely to seize opportunities through divergent thinking and agentic behaviour, while conscientiousness and emotional stability enhance long-term commitment and effective decision-making under pressure (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). These patterns resonate with the Big Five framework, suggesting that personality profiles condition the extent to which EI fosters resilience, adaptability, and initiative (Mishra & Singh, 2022 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). Importantly, this interaction highlights the need to personalise entrepreneurial training according to personality composition. Such differentiation calls for policy frameworks that integrate psychometric assessments into entrepreneurship education, allowing for tailored support based on personality, gender, and cultural profile (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Cultural dimensions, particularly those based on Hofstede’s individualism–collectivism spectrum, also shape how EI is mobilised in entrepreneurial contexts (Miao et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ). In collectivist cultures, EI tends to support social integration and community-oriented entrepreneurship, reinforcing empathy, trust-building, and group conformity (Mortan et al., 2014 ). However, these same social expectations may limit individual agency and risk-taking. Conversely, in individualist settings, EI more often reinforces autonomy, creative problem-solving, and innovation—behaviours that align more directly with EInt (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). This cultural interplay underscores the importance of contextualising EI-based interventions in entrepreneurial ecosystems. Gender emerges as another critical moderator, intersecting with both personality and cultural norms (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Othman & Muda, 2018 ; Mortan et al., 2014 ). Although women often score higher on EI dimensions such as empathy and emotional regulation, these competencies are not always translated into EInt due to structural inequities, lack of capital access, and gendered expectations that discourage entrepreneurial risk-taking (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Othman & Muda, 2018 ). Nonetheless, these studies highlight that EI enhances resilience and social networking among women entrepreneurs. Without gender-sensitive ecosystems, however, this potential remains underleveraged (Mortan et al., 2014 ). Gender thus moderates not only the psychological link between EI and EInt, but also the responsiveness to education and policy mechanisms. Socioeconomic status (SES) and educational background also modulate how EI is activated in entrepreneurial processes (Khalid et al., 2018 ; Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). Individuals from higher SES contexts benefit from financial, institutional, and informational resources that amplify the strategic use of emotional competencies (Khalid et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). In contrast, those from lower SES backgrounds tend to rely on EI for perseverance and opportunity development under constraint (Tiwari et al., 2017a ; Hussain et al., 2021 ). Educational pathways further influence this dynamic: formal academic training may sharpen analytical skills but does not necessarily enhance EInt unless complemented by experiential and emotional learning (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Programmes integrating emotional regulation, interpersonal communication, and resilience—especially those offering mentoring or incubator support—appear more effective in translating EI into sustainable entrepreneurial outcomes among disadvantaged groups (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). For example, in studies conducted in Malaysia and Nigeria, participants engaged in EI-centred entrepreneurial bootcamps reported higher perceived feasibility and stronger intention trajectories, particularly among women and low-SES individuals (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Othman & Muda, 2018 ). Taken together, these findings suggest that the influence of EI on EInt is not universally consistent, but rather deeply shaped by individual and contextual moderators. This reinforces the need for ecosystem-level strategies that combine psychological development with cultural sensitivity and structural inclusion. Future research should explore how these moderators interact dynamically, and how tailored interventions can unlock the full entrepreneurial potential of emotionally intelligent individuals across diverse settings. Emerging Thematic Patterns in the EI–EInt Relationship The reviewed studies reveal recurrent patterns in how Emotional Intelligence (EI) influences Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), highlighting its multidimensional role in supporting opportunity recognition, motivation, and resilience. Emotional competencies such as adaptability, creativity, and regulation are particularly valuable in volatile and resource-constrained contexts, enabling individuals to navigate adversity while maintaining entrepreneurial drive (Zampetakis et al., 2009 ; Mortan et al., 2014 ; Yıldırım et al., 2019 ). One notable trend is the moderating effect of cultural and personality variables on the EI–EInt relationship (Miao et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). In collectivist cultures, EI facilitates social cohesion, prosocial behaviour, and community-driven entrepreneurship (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Hussain et al., 2021 ). Conversely, individualistic contexts amplify EI’s link to autonomy, innovation, and proactive goal pursuit (Miao et al., 2018 ). Personality traits such as openness, proactivity, and emotional stability influence how EI is translated into entrepreneurial behaviour (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). A second emergent pattern involves the rise of Social Entrepreneurial Intentions (SEIs), where EI supports moral obligation, empathy, and commitment to social value creation (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Wahid et al., 2019 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). These dynamics are salient in Southeast Asia and Southern Europe, where entrepreneurship often reflects goals of inclusion and collective well-being (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Tiwari et al., 2017b ). Third, EI plays a critical role in empowering underrepresented groups (Tiwari et al., 2017b ; Darmanto & Pujiarti, 2020 ; Al-Tekreeti & Dandis, 2023 ). In such contexts, emotionally intelligent individuals rely on regulation, perceived control, and persistence to develop entrepreneurial intent, even without institutional or financial support. EI thus operates as a compensatory resource, supporting resilience and opportunity development. Fourth, several studies underscore the integration of EI training in entrepreneurship education (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). Interventions such as design thinking, mentoring, and scenario-based learning enhance mediators—including self-efficacy, creativity, and interpersonal skills—among students and marginalised groups, especially in inclusive entrepreneurship settings. Fifth, EI is increasingly linked to digital entrepreneurship, enabling entrepreneurs to manage complex team dynamics, emotionally engage users, and sustain innovation in high-pressure environments (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). Emotional competencies such as creativity, cognitive flexibility, and impulse control act as key mediators in digitally mediated ventures. Nevertheless, methodological limitations persist, as most studies rely on self-report measures, student samples, and cross-sectional data from emerging economies, limiting generalisability and temporal insight (Miao et al., 2018 ; Rodrigues et al., 2019 ). Future research should adopt longitudinal and ecosystem-level perspectives to better capture the evolution and contextual dynamics of EI in entrepreneurship. Collectively, these trends highlight the need for theoretical integration and context-sensitive models. The next section discusses the implications of these findings for research and practice, offering a foundation for more emotionally responsive entrepreneurial ecosystems. Conclusion This review positions Emotional Intelligence (EI) as a core psychological enabler in the formation of Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), complementing traditional drivers such as financial capital and strategic knowledge (Schlaegel et al., 2021 ; Tiwari et al., 2017a ). EI contributes to the development of essential entrepreneurial competencies—namely self-efficacy, creativity, and emotional regulation—that help individuals navigate uncertainty, recognise opportunities, and engage in intentional decision-making (Rodrigues et al., 2019 ; Miao et al., 2018 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). By consolidating previously fragmented evidence, this review maps 22 mediating variables and several moderating factors, offering a comprehensive and contextualised understanding of how EI shapes EInt. This mapping represents a contribution to the literature by clarifying the mechanisms through which emotional competencies operate in entrepreneurial cognition and behaviour. Self-efficacy and creativity emerge as the most consistent and powerful mediators across diverse samples (Mortan et al., 2014 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Meanwhile, moderators such as cultural values, gender, personality traits, and socioeconomic status condition the expression of EInt, highlighting the non-uniform nature of the EI–EInt relationship across entrepreneurial ecosystems (Miao et al., 2018 ; López-Núñez et al., 2022 ). The integration of findings through the lenses of the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Social Cognitive Theory reinforces the theoretical grounding of this relationship. By aligning cognitive, affective, and contextual dimensions, the review contributes to a more nuanced and integrative framework for understanding how emotional competencies translate into entrepreneurial motivation, perceived behavioural control, and intentional action (Ajzen, 1991 ; Bandura, 1986 ). From a methodological standpoint, the literature remains constrained by a predominance of cross-sectional designs, student samples, and a lack of representation from marginalised populations and diverse entrepreneurial settings. Future research should prioritise longitudinal, mixed-method, and ecosystem-level approaches to capture how EI develops over time and interacts with dynamic entrepreneurial environments (Rodrigues & Marques, 2020 ; Mishra & Singh, 2022 ). On a practical level, the findings support the integration of emotional intelligence training into entrepreneurship education and policy. Interventions such as mentoring, design thinking, scenario-based learning, and inclusive incubation programmes can foster the emotional and cognitive capabilities required for opportunity-driven entrepreneurship—particularly among youth, women, and individuals from resource-constrained backgrounds (López-Núñez et al., 2022 ; Khalid et al., 2018 ). Finally, future studies should move beyond intention to examine how EI influences venture creation, sustainability, and social impact. As entrepreneurial ecosystems continue to evolve in complexity and diversity, understanding the role of emotional intelligence becomes increasingly vital—not only to predict intention, but to inform the design of emotionally responsive, inclusive, and impact-driven entrepreneurial systems. Advancing this research agenda calls for interdisciplinary, culturally sensitive models that acknowledge EI not only as a psychological predictor but also as a strategic lever for inclusive and transformative entrepreneurship. These insights can support educators and policymakers in designing entrepreneurship programmes and ecosystems that strategically leverage emotional intelligence to foster inclusive innovation, social cohesion, and long-term entrepreneurial sustainability. Declarations Declarations Conflict of interest: The authors have no conflict of interest to disclose. Ethical approval: This article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors. Informed consent: This article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors. Funding: This work is financed by Portuguese national funds through FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia, under the project UID/05422/2020. Author Contribution Conceptualization, validation, formal analysis, and original draft preparations– Dr. Joana Moreira and Dr. O. L. Rua; Supervision – Dr. O. L. Rua and Dr. B. Suárez-Eiroa; Re-view and editing – Dr. Joana Moreira ; Methodology – Dr. Joana Moreira and Dr. O. L. Rua. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript. Data Availability Data will be available upon request by contacting the corresponding author via email. 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J Vocat Behav 110:403–419 Owoseni OO, Mayungbo OA, Olatunji OA, Okunola OE (2021) Will emotional intelligence predict entrepreneurial intentions? North Am J Psychol 23(1):1–14 Othman N, Muda S (2018) The influence of entrepreneurial traits on entrepreneurial intention among university students. Int J Entrepreneurship 22(1):1–10 Paul J, Lim WM, O’Cass A, Hao AW, Bresciani S (2021) Scientific procedures and rationales for systematic literature reviews (SPAR-4-SLR). Int J Consumer Stud 45(5):1–16 Rodrigues AP, Jorge FE, Pires CA, António P (2019) The contribution of emotional intelligence and spirituality in understanding creativity and entrepreneurial intention of higher education students. Educ + Train 61(7/8):870–894 Rodrigues CA, Marques RP (2020) Emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial intention: The role of self-efficacy. J Bus Res 112:145–153 Salovey P, Mayer JD (1990) Emotional intelligence. Imagination Cognition Personality 9(3):185–211. https://doi.org/10.2190/DUGG-P24E-52WK-6CDG Schlaegel C, He X, Engle RL (2021) The direct and indirect influences of cultural values on entrepreneurial intentions: A fourteen-nation study. J Int Bus Stud 52(4):498–529 Tiwari P, Bhat AK, Tikoria J (2017a) The role of emotional intelligence and self-efficacy on social entrepreneurial attitudes and social entrepreneurial intentions. J Social Entrepreneurship 8(2):165–185 Tiwari P, Bhat AK, Tikoria J (2017b) Entrepreneurial intentions among university students: The moderating role of family economic background. J Entrepreneurship Educ 20(2):1–14 Wahid SDM, Ayob AH, Hussain WMHW (2019) Twinkle twinkle little star: How subjective norm mediates so far? Formation of social entrepreneurship intention in Malaysia. Int J Eng Adv Technol 8(5C):101–107 Yıldırım F, Trout IY, Hartzell S (2019) How are entrepreneurial intentions affected by emotional intelligence and creativity? Periodica Polytech Social Manage Sci 27(1):59–65 Zampetakis LA, Kafetsios K, Bouranta N, Dewett T, Moustakis VS (2009) On the relationship between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial attitudes and intentions. Int J Entrepreneurial Behav Res 15(6):595–618 Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":433065,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eSystematic Literature Review Process following the SPAR-4-SLR Framework\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: Own elaboration.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8020734/v1/c4909598cb8f8e99953d71e3.png"},{"id":98782578,"identity":"5d5824fd-a82f-4168-8751-a1fa4d11c5a7","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-22 12:40:17","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1534135,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8020734/v1/265a147d-9b5b-4398-bc83-bf9405784e39.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Unpacking the Emotional Intelligence–Entrepreneurial Intentions Link: A Systematic Review of Mediators and Moderators","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eEmotional Intelligence (EI) has emerged as a key psychological resource for Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), operating through mechanisms such as self-efficacy (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e), creativity (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), subjective norms (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), perceived behavioural control (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e), and optimism (Madar et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). These mechanisms foster entrepreneurial motivation, innovation, and resilience, enhancing individuals\u0026rsquo; capacity to navigate uncertainty and identify opportunities (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHowever, the strength and direction of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship vary across contexts, as cultural norms, personality traits, gender, and socioeconomic conditions moderate this connection (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). For instance, in collectivist cultures, EI fosters social cohesion and group alignment (Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e), whereas in individualist settings, it encourages autonomy, initiative, and proactive behaviour (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., 2017). Traits such as risk propensity, emotional stability, and ambiguity tolerance further influence how EI supports entrepreneurial decision-making (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhile entrepreneurial intentions are widely recognised as precursors to behaviour (Owoseni et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e), prior research has prioritised cognitive antecedents\u0026mdash;especially those rooted in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)\u0026mdash;over the affective and regulatory dimensions inherent to EI (Miao et al., 2017; Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Yet, EI underpins critical entrepreneurial competencies, including opportunity recognition, persistence, adaptability, and interpersonal influence (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e), essential for navigating complex entrepreneurial ecosystems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eImportantly, the EI\u0026ndash;EInt dynamic is seldom linear, as while some studies report direct effects (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e), others highlight indirect pathways through mediators such as self-efficacy, creativity, and perceived social support, as well as moderators like cultural values (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). This fragmented evidence has hindered the development of integrative models that explain how and under what conditions EI translates into entrepreneurial intentions and behaviour (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis gap is particularly salient in entrepreneurship education and policy, where the transformative potential of EI remains underutilised\u0026mdash;despite its relevance for inclusive, opportunity-driven ecosystems (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMoreover, previous reviews have not yet provided a systematic synthesis of how mediating and moderating factors jointly shape the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship across entrepreneurial ecosystems. Addressing this theoretical gap is essential to develop more inclusive and emotionally grounded entrepreneurship education and policy (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAddressing this fragmentation, the present review systematically examines the psychological and contextual mechanisms through which EI influences EInt, with a focus on mediating and moderating variables. Based on 18 empirical studies published between 2000 and 2024, it consolidates dispersed findings into a cohesive analytical framework. Methodologically, it applies the SPAR-4-SLR protocol (Paul et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e) to ensure rigour and transparency, and leverages the ADO-TCM framework to structure insights across antecedents, decisions, outcomes, theories, contexts, and methods.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis review is guided by two research questions:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRQ1. How does emotional intelligence influence entrepreneurial intentions?\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRQ2. Which mediating and moderating factors shape the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship across diverse contexts?\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTheoretical background\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eEmotional intelligence\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmotional Intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognised as a core psychological resource for navigating the uncertainty and complexity inherent to entrepreneurship (Salovey \u0026amp; Mayer, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1990\u003c/span\u003e; Goleman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1995\u003c/span\u003e; Bar-On, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e). Defined as the capacity to perceive, understand, and regulate emotions in oneself and others (Salovey \u0026amp; Mayer, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1990\u003c/span\u003e), EI enables emotional awareness, self-control, and effective decision-making in dynamic environments (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThree dominant models conceptualise EI from distinct yet complementary perspectives. The ability model (Mayer \u0026amp; Salovey, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e) focuses on emotional perception, understanding, and regulation, associating these skills with adaptability, creativity, and resilience (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Goleman\u0026rsquo;s mixed model (1995) includes self-awareness, motivation, empathy, and social competence, linking EI to leadership and perseverance (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). The trait model (Bar-On, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e) emphasises intrapersonal awareness, stress management, and emotional stability\u0026mdash;dimensions that support entrepreneurial judgement and coping (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite their differences, all three models converge in positioning EI as a catalyst for key entrepreneurial competencies such as opportunity recognition, innovation, and interpersonal influence (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Empirical findings consistently link EI with enhanced self-efficacy and creativity, reinforcing its centrality in the development of entrepreneurial behaviours (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). In response, entrepreneurship education has increasingly incorporated EI-focused interventions aimed at strengthening emotional regulation, social awareness, and resilience (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI thus emerges as a multidimensional construct that shapes the interplay between emotional and cognitive processes across entrepreneurial contexts (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). By fostering adaptability and relational capacity, EI enhances both the confidence and strategic orientation needed to transform ideas into entrepreneurial action (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEntrepreneurial intentions\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEmotional Intelligence (EI) is closely aligned with the psychological underpinnings of Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), given its influence on cognition, motivation, and self-regulation (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). EInt refer to the cognitive and motivational processes that prompt individuals to consider and engage in entrepreneurial activity, marking the first stage in the journey (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Closely linked to opportunity recognition, innovation, and perseverance in uncertain environments, EInt are consistently regarded as robust predictors of entrepreneurial behaviour (Newman et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTwo foundational theories underpin the conceptualisation of EInt: the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e). According to TPB, entrepreneurial intentions are shaped by attitudes toward the behaviour, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e; Kautonen et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). The latter is strongly associated with Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE), which reflects an individual\u0026rsquo;s belief in their ability to successfully perform entrepreneurial tasks (Schlaegel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Newman et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). SCT (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e) complements this perspective by highlighting the role of personal agency, self-reflection, resilience, and social modelling in shaping entrepreneurial motivation (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn addition to self-efficacy, psychological traits such as achievement motivation, internal locus of control, and risk-taking propensity contribute significantly to entrepreneurial decision-making and opportunity evaluation under uncertainty (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). External factors\u0026mdash;particularly entrepreneurship education, creativity, and experiential learning\u0026mdash;also play a crucial role in fostering EInt and strengthening ESE (Schlaegel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCultural values and social norms further moderate how entrepreneurship is perceived and pursued, as in collectivist cultures, EInt are often associated with prosocial and community-oriented goals, whereas in individualist societies, autonomy and personal achievement are predominant motivators (Kautonen et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Schlaegel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFraming EInt as a multidimensional construct allows for a deeper understanding of how EI interacts with cognitive, emotional, and contextual variables through complex mediating and moderating mechanisms (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). This perspective lays the conceptual foundation for the present review, which aims to systematically examine how Emotional Intelligence influences Entrepreneurial Intentions through mediators and moderators. The following chapter outlines the methodological procedures adopted to ensure rigour, transparency, and analytical depth.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methodology","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study adopts the SPAR-4-SLR framework (Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews) proposed by Paul et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e) to ensure methodological rigour and transparency. This structured protocol provides a robust foundation for systematically exploring the mediating and moderating mechanisms that characterise the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe review follows three iterative phases\u0026mdash;Assembling, Arranging, and Assessing\u0026mdash;which guide the identification, organisation, and synthesis of relevant empirical studies. During the Assembling phase, articles were retrieved from Web of Science and Scopus using the keywords \"emotional intelligence\" AND \"entrepren* intention*\" for the period 2000 to 2024. After removing duplicates and applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 peer-reviewed empirical studies were selected. Figure\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e illustrates the methodological process, including the steps taken for database selection, screening, and refinement of the final dataset.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo deepen the analytical insight, the ADO-TCM framework is applied in parallel. This model organises findings across three substantive domains\u0026mdash;Antecedents, Decisions, and Outcomes (ADO)\u0026mdash;and three structural dimensions\u0026mdash;Theories, Contexts, and Methods (TCM). When combined with the SPAR-4-SLR structure, this dual-framework approach enables a multidimensional analysis of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt nexus, supporting the identification of patterns, methodological variety, and underexplored contextual influences.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCombined, these frameworks enable a more nuanced classification of mediators\u0026mdash;such as self-efficacy, creativity, and resilience\u0026mdash;and moderators\u0026mdash;including cultural values, personality traits, gender, and socioeconomic background. This methodological design ensures clarity, replicability, and conceptual depth throughout the review, forming a solid foundation for the synthesis presented in the subsequent chapters.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e provides an overview of the methodological designs and theoretical frameworks adopted across the 18 empirical studies included in this review. Quantitative approaches predominated, with Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) being the most frequently used method to examine the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Cross-sectional designs were most common (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e), while qualitative studies were less frequent and often lacked depth, particularly in theory integration and coding transparency (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGeographically, most studies were conducted in emerging economies, such as India, Nigeria, and Malaysia, where entrepreneurship is promoted as a tool for economic development and social inclusion (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Othman \u0026amp; Muda, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Kanonuhwa et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, studies from developed economies or rural regions were limited, reducing generalizability across entrepreneurial ecosystems (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeyond geographical distribution, thematic focus also varied, with several studies exploring specialized domains of entrepreneurship, including social, digital, and sustainability-driven ventures (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). These incorporated constructs such as empathy, moral obligation, emotional self-regulation, and values-based leadership (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Other studies examined how EI supports strategic behavior in volatile environments, with emphasis on adaptability, creativity, and emotional resilience (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRegarding sample composition, most studies focused on university students, typically from business, economics, or engineering backgrounds (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). Longitudinal and cross-cultural studies were notably scarce (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e). Student samples were primarily used due to methodological convenience, though this narrow demographic scope raised concerns about ecological validity and generalizability (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese patterns highlight preferences in methodology, geography, and sample composition while also identifying key gaps in the current literature, such as the lack of longitudinal and ecosystem-based approaches. Recognizing these gaps, the next section provides an overview of the mediating and moderating mechanisms identified in the reviewed studies, which influence the relationship between EI and EInt.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOverview of the articles\u0026rsquo; sample\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"9\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTitle of the Article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAuthors and Year\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eType of Article\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKeywords\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheories Used\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eContext\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediators and Moderators\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMethodology\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMain Contributions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAn Empirical Analysis of the Factors Affecting Social Entrepreneurial Intentions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari, Bhat, and Tikoria (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Social EInt, Creativity, Moral Obligation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Planned Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndian university students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude, Subjective Norms, Perceived Behavioural Control\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;390) with SEM\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIdentifies EI and creativity as predictors of social EInt, with a focus on factors influencing social entrepreneurship\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCollective Impact of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy and Risk Propensity on Entrepreneurial Intentions: Mediating Role of Perceived Social Support\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKhalid, Bashir, and Saqib (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Perceived Social Support, Self-Efficacy, EInt, Risk Propensity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocial Cognitive Theory, Theory of Planned Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePakistani business students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerceived Social Support\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;260) with regression analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDemonstrates how self-efficacy and risk propensity are moderated by social support, affecting EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDeveloping Students\u0026rsquo; Social Entrepreneurial Intention\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDarmanto and Pujiarti (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Social EInt, Self-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCareer Development Theory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndonesian university students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocial Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSEM analysis (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;125)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHighlights the role of self-efficacy in social EInt, emphasizing the influence of social and educational experiences\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of Emotional Intelligence and Cognitive Flexibility on Entrepreneurial Intention: Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra and Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Cognitive Flexibility, EInt, Self-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCognitive Flexibility Theory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndian engineering students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCross-sectional survey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;635)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShows that EI and cognitive flexibility enhance EInt, with self-efficacy acting as a mediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffects of Emotional Intelligence on Entrepreneurial Intention and Self-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMortan, Ripoll, Carvalho, and Bernal (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, EInt, Self-Efficacy, Personality Traits\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBig Five Personality Traits\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpanish and Portuguese university students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;394) with hierarchical regression\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinds EI positively impacts self-efficacy, which in turn influences EInt; notes differences based on personality traits\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Intention Among University Undergraduates in Nigeria\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNwibe and Ogbuanya (2021)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Self-Efficacy, EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Planned Behaviour, Shapero\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurial Event Model\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNigerian undergraduates\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCorrelational survey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;387); SEM and regression analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHighlights EI\u0026rsquo;s influence on EInt via self-efficacy, with educational context considerations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Intentions: An Exploratory Meta-Analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMiao, Humphrey, Qian, and Pollack (2018)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMeta-analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, EInt, Cultural Dimensions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFit Theory, Trait Activation Theory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCross-cultural, multi-study analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHofstede's Cultural Dimensions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMeta-analysis of 12 studies with 3,578 participants\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eConfirms a positive correlation between EI and EInt, with cultural dimensions moderating this relationship\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFactors Affecting Entrepreneurial Intentions Among Students in Higher Education Institutions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAl-Tekreeti, Al Khasawneh and Dandis (2024)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Creativity, Entrepreneurial Motivation, EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocial Cognitive Theory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUniversity students in Jordan\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEntrepreneurial Motivation, Creativity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey with PLS analysis(n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;745)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMotivation and creativity strongly predict EInt, with EI indirectly influencing motivation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHow Are Entrepreneurial Intentions Affected by Emotional Intelligence and Creativity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYıldırım, Trout and Hartzell (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Creativity, EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI Theory by Salovey and Mayer, Goleman\u0026rsquo;s EI Model\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGraduate students in the USA\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProblem Solving Skills; Emotional Self Awareness; Impulse Control; Interpersonal Relations; Creativity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;399) using a 5-point Likert scale; SEM for hypothesis testing\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinds that problem-solving and impulse control positively impact entrepreneurial and creative intentions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOn the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Attitudes and Intentions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eZampetakis, Kafetsios, Bouranta, Dewett and Moustakis (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreative Thinking, Entrepreneurialism, Personality\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Planned Behaviour, Trait EI framework\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUniversity students in Greece across business, engineering, and science fields\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreativity, Proactivity, Attitudes towards entrepreneurship, Emotional Self-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSEM based on a survey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;280)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShows that EI indirectly influences intentions via creativity and proactivity, which positively impact attitudes toward entrepreneurship\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOptimism and Entrepreneurial Intentions Among Students: The Mediating Role of Emotional Intelligence\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKela Madar, Teeni-Harari, Icekson and Sela (2019)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEInt, Dispositional Optimism, EI\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEntrepreneurial Event Model, Theory of Planned Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIsraeli university students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey-based study (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;227) using SEM\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinds that EI mediates the relationship between optimism and EInt, suggesting that optimistic individuals may leverage EI in entrepreneurial contexts\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe association between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurship as a career choice: A study on university students in South Africa\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKanonuhwa, Rungani and Chimucheka (2018)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Entrepreneurship, Career Choice\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI Theory, Entrepreneurial Intention Models\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSouth African students in the Eastern Cape\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;385); multiple regression and correlation analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study found that emotional intelligence, particularly emotion regulation, strongly predicts entrepreneurial intention, suggesting the importance of integrating emotional intelligence training into entrepreneurship education.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe contribution of emotional intelligence and spirituality in understanding creativity and entrepreneurial intention of higher education students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRodrigues, Jorge, Pires and Ant\u0026oacute;nio (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpirituality, EI, Creativity, EInt, Perceived Behavioural Control\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Planned Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePortuguese higher education students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitudes toward entrepreneurship, Perceived Behavioural Control, Creativity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;345); path analysis for hypothesis testing\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShows that EI enhances creativity and entrepreneurial intentions through perceived control, while spirituality has minimal effect\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Role of Emotional Intelligence and Self-Efficacy on Social Entrepreneurial Attitudes and Social Entrepreneurial Intentions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari, Bhat and Tikoria (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Self-Efficacy, Attitudes, Social EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Reasoned Action, Social Cognitive Theory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndian undergraduate students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude, Subjective norms; EI, Self-\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEfficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;230) with systematic random sampling\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEstablishes a framework using the theory of reasoned action to measure SEIs, showing how emotional intelligence and self-efficacy impact social entrepreneurial intentions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe role of individual variables as antecedents of entrepreneurship processes: Emotional intelligence and self-efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eL\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez, Rubio-Valdehita and D\u0026iacute;az-Ramiro (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEInt, EI, Self-Efficacy, Personality, Individual\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifferences\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Planned Behaviour, Social Cognitive Theory, Basic Intentions-based progress model\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpanish college students across various academic disciplines\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEntrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE), Personality Traits, Demographic Variables (Gender, Age)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCross-sectional design; regression analysis of a survey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1,593)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmotional intelligence (EI) influences entrepreneurial intention; Entrepreneurial self-efficacy mediates the relationship between EI and intention\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTrait Emotional Intelligence and Social Entrepreneurial Intentions: Multi-Mediators Analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWan Hussain, Mohd Wahid, Ayob, and Ismail (2021)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocial Entrepreneurship Intention, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Trait EI\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Planned Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalaysian students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitudes toward Social Entrepreneurship, Subjective Norms, Perceived Behavioural Control\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSurvey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;419) using SEM (AMOS)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study concludes that trait emotional intelligence indirectly influences social entrepreneurial intentions, acting through mediating factors: subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, rather than having a direct effect.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTwinkle twinkle little star how subjective norm mediates so far Formation of social entrepreneurship intention in Malaysia\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMohd Wahid, Ayob, and Wan Hussain (2019)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocial Entrepreneurship Intention, Trait EI, Subjective Norm\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTheory of Reasoned Action\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMalaysian students focused on social entrepreneurship\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSubjective Norm\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCross-sectional study (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;480); SEM (AMOS)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study finds that subjective norms partially mediate the relationship between trait emotional intelligence and students' intentions toward social entrepreneurship with as insignificant direct effect of trait EI in social entrepreneurial intention.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWill Emotional Intelligence Predict Entrepreneurial Intentions?\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOwoseni, Mayungbo, Olatunji and Okunola (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical Study\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI, Entrepreneurs, EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGoleman\u0026rsquo;s EI Model\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNigerian university students\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEI dimensions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExploratory survey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;200); SPSS for analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results showed that emotional intelligence collectively predicted entrepreneurial intention; however, among its dimensions, only motivation independently predicted entrepreneurial intention in the study participants.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRelationship patterns between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial intentions\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reviewed studies consistently demonstrate that Emotional Intelligence (EI) significantly shapes Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) through core psychological mechanisms such as emotional regulation, decision-making, resilience, and creativity (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Individuals with higher levels of EI exhibit greater adaptability, problem-solving ability, and opportunity recognition, particularly in uncertain and dynamic environments (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Owoseni et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmong these mechanisms, Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE) emerges as the most consistently cited mediator, linking emotional competencies to entrepreneurial confidence and goal-oriented behaviour (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Ogbuanya, 2024). Creativity, similarly, fostered by EI, facilitates opportunity recognition and innovative thinking (Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These mediating pathways are grounded in Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e) and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e), which explain how personal agency, perceived control, and behavioural intentions drive entrepreneurial action (Schlaegel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContextual moderators further condition this relationship as in collectivist cultures, EI fosters social cohesion and empathy-driven entrepreneurship (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e), whereas in individualist contexts it promotes autonomy, strategic initiative, and self-direction (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Educational attainment and socioeconomic context also influence how emotional competencies are translated into entrepreneurial action (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Kanonuhwa et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn cognitively demanding or high-risk settings, the impact of EI may depend on complementary traits such as confidence, proactivity, and tolerance for ambiguity (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Ogbuanya, 2024; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These interactions underscore the conditional, non-linear nature of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt dynamic.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTogether, these findings highlight a multifactorial and context-sensitive relationship, in which emotional competencies interact with individual and environmental variables to shape entrepreneurial intentions. The next sections examine in greater depth the key mediators and moderators structuring this relationship across diverse empirical contexts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eAnalysis of mediators and moderators\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e presents an overview of the mediating and moderating variables identified across the reviewed studies. Among the mediators, self-efficacy consistently emerges as the most frequently cited, functioning as a central psychological mechanism through which Emotional Intelligence (EI) influences Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Emotionally intelligent individuals tend to demonstrate greater confidence, persistence, and capacity to manage uncertainty\u0026mdash;key attributes that reinforce entrepreneurial decision-making (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Ogbuanya, 2024).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOther frequently reported mediators include creativity, perceived behavioural control, and subjective norms (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Creativity plays a particularly salient role, enabling the transformation of emotional competencies into innovative thinking and opportunity recognition, especially under dynamic or uncertain conditions (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). These mediating pathways are grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e) and Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e), which highlight the influence of personal agency, perceived control, and efficacy on behavioural outcomes (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdditional mediators such as emotional self-awareness, moral obligation, and entrepreneurial motivation emerge in more specific contexts, particularly within social or sustainability-oriented entrepreneurship (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Bakare, 2022). According to these authors, these mechanisms suggest that EI contributes not only to cognitive and affective processing but also to ethical decision-making and prosocial engagement.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs for moderators, the literature identifies personality traits, demographic factors, cultural values, and socioeconomic background as key variables influencing the strength and direction of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These contextual influences confirm that the EI\u0026ndash;EInt link is neither linear nor universal, but contingent upon both individual dispositions and environmental settings (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTogether, these findings underscore the necessity of considering both internal psychological mechanisms and external contextual conditions when analysing how EI affects entrepreneurial intention. The next section explores these mediating and moderating dynamics in greater detail, offering a more refined view of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSummary of mediators and moderators in the relationship between EI and EInt\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eConstruct\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator/\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eModerator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAuthors\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-Efficacy\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKhalid et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e); Darmanto and Pujiarti (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e); Mishra and Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e); Mortan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e); Nwibe and Ogbuanya (2024); Zampetakis et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e); Tiwari et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e); Nwibe and Bakare (2022); L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e); Tiwari et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreativity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e); Al-Tekreeti and Dandis (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e); Yildirim et al. (2019); Rodrigues et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e); Zampetakis et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerceived Behaviour Control\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e); Darmanto and Pujiarti (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e); Rodrigues et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e); Hussain et al. (2020)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSubjective Norms\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e); Darmanto and Pujiarti (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e); Wahid Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e); Hussain et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitudes Toward Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e); Darmanto and Pujiarti (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e); Zampetakis et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e); Nwibe and Bakare (2022); Rodrigues et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e); Tiwari Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e); Hussain et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDemographic Variables\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eModerator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra and Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e); Mortan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e); L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRisk Taking Propensity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKhalid Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e); Mishra and Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProactive Behaviour\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eZampetakis Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e); Tiwari Et Al. (2017)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePersonality Traits\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eModerator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMortan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e); L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDispositional Optimism\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMadar Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e);\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProblem-Solving\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYildirim Et Al. (2019)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNeed For Achievement\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra And Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInternal Locus of Control\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra And Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMoral Obligation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTiwari Et Al. (2017)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerceived Social Support\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKhalid Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCognitive Flexibility\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra And Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInnovativeness\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra And Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerseverance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMishra And Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCultural Dimensions of Hofstede\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eModerator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMiao Et Al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEntrepreneurial Motivation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAl-Tekreeti and Dandis (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmotional Self Awareness\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYildirim Et Al. (2019)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eImpulse Control\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYildirim Et Al. (2019)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterpersonal Relations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYildirim Et Al. (2019)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerceived Feasibility\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNwibe and Bakare (2022)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpirituality\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediator\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRodrigues et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey mediators in the EI-EInt relationship\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reviewed studies indicate that the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) is mediated by a range of psychological and cognitive variables (Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). The most frequently reported mediators include self-efficacy, creativity, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes toward entrepreneurship (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-efficacy has been identified as the most consistently observed mediator (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e), with studies reporting positive associations between EI and entrepreneurial confidence, motivation, and resilience (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These findings are frequently situated within the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Social Cognitive Theory, which highlight the influence of self-efficacy on perceived behavioural control and entrepreneurial agency (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e; Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e; Schlaegel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Cultural variations in self-efficacy were noted across collectivist and individualist contexts (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreativity also plays a key mediating role in several studies (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e). EI supports creative ideation, problem-solving, and opportunity recognition, especially in uncertain environments. Some studies highlight joint effects of creativity and self-efficacy on entrepreneurial action (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOther frequently cited mediators include perceived behavioural control (PBC), subjective norms, and attitudes toward entrepreneurship. PBC was discussed within the TPB framework, with emotional competencies such as stress management and strategic awareness linked to higher levels of perceived control in volatile environments (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Subjective norms were especially relevant in collectivist cultures, where emotional regulation enables responsiveness to social expectations (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Attitudes toward entrepreneurship were associated with more favourable perceptions of risk and reduced fear of failure, often influenced by optimism and emotional adaptability (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeyond the most recurrent mediators, the literature also identifies constructs such as risk-taking propensity, proactive behaviour, dispositional optimism, internal locus of control, and need for achievement (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Madar et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These traits reflect motivational and dispositional drivers through which EI enhances entrepreneurial orientation (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContext-specific mediators were found in studies on social, sustainability, and culturally embedded entrepreneurship, including mediators as moral obligation, perceived social support, entrepreneurial motivation, and spirituality (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Bakare, 2022). Other studies highlight the role of cognitive flexibility in adapting to environmental uncertainty and perseverance in sustaining entrepreneurial effort (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Emotional self-awareness, impulse control, and interpersonal relations were also noted as mediators linked to emotional regulation and social functioning (Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaken together, these mediators illuminate the internal processes through which EI enhances entrepreneurial cognition, confidence, and persistence\u0026mdash;dimensions that unfold differently depending on contextual and dispositional moderators, as discussed in the next section.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey moderators in the EI-EInt relationship\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) is shaped by several moderators, which vary depending on individual attributes and environmental contexts (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These moderators influence the strength or direction of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship. The most frequently reported moderators are demographic variables, personality traits, cultural values, entrepreneurial education, and socioeconomic status (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDemographic factors such as age, gender, and educational level impact how EI influences the development of EInt (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). According to these authors, younger individuals, for example, who score high on EI, often exhibit stronger emotional adaptability and a greater inclination towards entrepreneurial learning. In contrast, older participants typically show more consistent emotional regulation and a longer-term goal orientation, enhancing their entrepreneurial drive (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, educational attainment strengthens the link between EI and EInt by improving decision-making abilities and access to critical knowledge (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender has been examined in several studies with varying results, as for example, female participants with high EI, particularly in socially oriented contexts, often demonstrate increased confidence and motivation to pursue entrepreneurial goals (Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Bakare, 2022). On the other hand, male participants were found to show a stronger connection between EI and opportunity-driven intentions, with EI acting as a significant driver for goal-oriented entrepreneurial activities (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen it comes to personality traits, studies consistently report that these characteristics are influential moderators of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Traits such as conscientiousness, emotional stability, and openness to experience determine how EI influences entrepreneurial action, as individuals with high EI and a proactive or optimistic profile are especially likely to channel their emotional awareness into intentional, action-oriented entrepreneurial behaviours (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCultural values, particularly those rooted in individualism versus collectivism, also moderate the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship, as in collectivist cultures, EI facilitates alignment with social expectations and group cohesion, fostering community-driven entrepreneurship (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). According to these authors, in individualistic contexts, EI is more strongly associated with autonomy, proactivity, and strategic initiative, leading to a focus on individual entrepreneurial efforts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEntrepreneurial education has been identified as a crucial moderator in several studies, as exposure to both formal and informal entrepreneurial training significantly enhances the effect of EI on entrepreneurial intentions, particularly by boosting self-efficacy, perceived feasibility, and opportunity recognition (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Such training supports the application of emotional competencies in real-world entrepreneurial scenarios (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn contexts marked by vulnerability or structural constraints, socioeconomic background plays a moderating role in the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship (Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). According to them, individuals with high EI tend to demonstrate stronger entrepreneurial intentions and perceived control, even when external support is lacking.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSeveral studies have also highlighted combined moderating effects, where two or more factors, such as gender and education, or personality and culture, interact to influence how EI shapes entrepreneurial intentions (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe next section explores the emerging patterns and trends that arise from these moderators, highlighting how Emotional Intelligence interacts with evolving forms of entrepreneurial intention across diverse contexts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eKey emerging patterns and trends\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe reviewed studies reveal consistent patterns in the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), underscoring the role of EI in facilitating behaviours and opportunity recognition. Core emotional competencies\u0026mdash;such as resilience, creativity, and adaptability\u0026mdash;emerge as key enablers of EInt, particularly in contexts of uncertainty and limited resources (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). These capacities allow individuals to navigate complex environments, sustaining motivation and intentional action.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA notable trend involves the influence of cultural and personality-based moderators (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). In collectivist cultures, EI tends to foster empathy and community-oriented entrepreneurship, reinforcing group cohesion and prosocial behaviour (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). In individualistic contexts, EI supports autonomy, innovation, and proactive goal pursuit. Personality traits such as extraversion, openness, and emotional stability further modulate how EI translates into entrepreneurial outcomes (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA second emerging pattern is the growing relevance of Social Entrepreneurial Intentions (SEIs) (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). In this domain, EI contributes not only to opportunity recognition and emotional regulation, but also to prosocial values\u0026mdash;such as empathy and moral obligation\u0026mdash;which drive ventures with social impact. SEIs are particularly prominent in Southeast Asia and Southern Europe, where entrepreneurship is often framed as a mechanism for social inclusion and collective well-being (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe third pattern concerns the role of EI in fostering entrepreneurial inclusion and resilience among marginalised or resource-constrained populations (Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). In such contexts, individuals with high EI exhibit stronger perceived control and sustained intention strength, even in the absence of external support. EI thus acts as a compensatory resource, enabling adaptive responses to adversity and promoting opportunity development under structural constraints.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA fourth trend is the integration of EI into entrepreneurship education. Several studies emphasise the importance of embedding emotional competencies\u0026mdash;such as regulation, interpersonal awareness, and reflection\u0026mdash;into learning environments to enhance entrepreneurial readiness (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Experiential approaches such as mentoring, scenario-based learning, and design thinking foster self-efficacy, creativity, and resilience, particularly among youth and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA fifth trend highlights the relevance of EI in digital entrepreneurship. Emotional competencies support self-regulation in fast-paced environments and enable effective virtual team management (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). EI also facilitates the development of emotionally resonant, user-centric solutions that are vital for technology-driven ventures (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e), enhancing innovation in digital ecosystems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite these contributions, methodological limitations persist. Many studies rely on cross-sectional designs, student samples, and self-report measures, constraining generalisability and longitudinal insight (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, the predominance of data from emerging economies limits the broader applicability of findings to mature ecosystems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCollectively, these patterns offer a foundation for future research and theoretical development. The next section explores how EI shapes entrepreneurial intentions across diverse cultural and contextual settings.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eEntrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) arise from the dynamic interplay between individual attributes and contextual conditions (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Emotional Intelligence (EI), understood as a multidimensional capacity, enhances individuals\u0026rsquo; ability to regulate emotions, cope with uncertainty, and recognise entrepreneurial opportunities\u0026mdash;skills that are particularly valuable in volatile and complex environments (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnchored in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e) and Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e), this systematic review examines how EI influences EInt both directly and indirectly\u0026mdash;through a range of psychological mechanisms\u0026mdash;and how this relationship is conditioned by cultural, personal, and socioeconomic factors (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuilding on the evidence mapped in Chap.\u0026nbsp;4, the discussion now turns to a critical interpretation of these findings. The analysis begins by critically examining the core relational patterns observed between EI and EInt, followed by a detailed exploration of the mechanisms that mediate this relationship, the moderators that shape it, and the emerging themes that point to promising avenues for future research and practice.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRelationship patterns between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial intentions\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical evidence consistently reveals a positive association between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), indicating that individuals with higher emotional competencies tend to exhibit stronger entrepreneurial motivation, adaptability, and perceived capacity to act under uncertainty (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis association is theoretically supported by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e), particularly through the dimensions of perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes toward entrepreneurship. Individuals with elevated EI are more likely to perceive entrepreneurship as both desirable and attainable, owing to their enhanced emotional regulation, empathy, and social awareness (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). These emotional competencies contribute to shaping positive entrepreneurial attitudes, aligning personal values with social expectations, and reinforcing the perception of behavioural control.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn parallel, Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e) underscores the role of self-efficacy and personal agency, both of which are reinforced by emotionally intelligent self-reflection, vicarious learning, and adaptive coping strategies (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). These mechanisms enable individuals to believe in their capacity to successfully initiate and sustain entrepreneurial actions, especially in volatile environments.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNonetheless, research also indicates that in highly uncertain or high-risk contexts, EI alone may be insufficient to activate entrepreneurial intentions (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Ogbuanya, 2024; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Under such conditions, complementary factors\u0026mdash;such as creativity, proactive behaviour, and perceived feasibility\u0026mdash;gain prominence, highlighting the complexity and multifactorial nature of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship (Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Nwibe \u0026amp; Ogbuanya, 2024). This integrative view suggests that while EI provides a critical foundation for emotional adaptation, its effect on intention formation depends on the interaction with cognitive, dispositional, and contextual elements that enable opportunity engagement and behavioural execution.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRole of mediators in the EI-EInt relationship\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe connection between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) is shaped by internal mechanisms that determine how individuals interpret emotions, evaluate opportunities, and commit to entrepreneurial action (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). This review confirms that EI does not operate in isolation but rather through key mediating variables encompassing cognitive, emotional, motivational, and social processes (Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). While self-efficacy, creativity, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes toward behaviour are the most frequently studied mediators (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e), several other constructs further clarify how emotional competencies shape EInt.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-efficacy consistently emerges as the most robust mediator. Emotionally intelligent individuals tend to exhibit greater entrepreneurial confidence as they regulate emotions, manage uncertainty, and pursue goals with persistence (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). This aligns with Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e) and with the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e), where self-efficacy enhances perceived behavioural control. Creativity, as a cognitive-affective bridge, facilitates opportunity recognition and problem-solving, supported by emotional regulation and self-awareness (Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerceived behavioural control reflects individuals\u0026rsquo; belief in their capacity to act and is strengthened by stress regulation and adaptability (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Subjective norms translate emotional atonement into responsiveness to social expectations, particularly in collectivist settings (Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). Attitudes toward entrepreneurship are shaped by optimism, emotional clarity, and value alignment, reinforcing perceptions of entrepreneurship as desirable and achievable (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdditional mechanisms expand this picture. Risk-taking propensity and proactive behaviour illustrate how EI energises action under uncertainty (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e), while dispositional optimism fosters perseverance through positive expectations (Madar et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Problem-solving ability, grounded in emotional regulation, enhances adaptability and strategic thinking (Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). These findings underscore the role of EI as a dynamic enabler of behavioural strategies reinforcing EInt.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMotivational and internal drivers further mediate this relationship. Need for achievement and internal locus of control reflect personal drive and belief in agency, both supported by EI (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Moral obligation, though less explored, connects emotional competence to ethical commitment (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e), while perceived social support is particularly relevant in collectivist or low-resource settings (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCognitive flexibility and innovativeness reflect EI\u0026rsquo;s role in adapting to novelty and generating ideas (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Perseverance sustains long-term effort under emotionally demanding conditions (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e), and entrepreneurial motivation, though sometimes seen as an outcome, also mediates the link between emotional clarity and intention (Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinally, emotional self-awareness, impulse control, and interpersonal relations represent micro-level mechanisms through which EI supports interpersonal balance and emotional stability in entrepreneurial contexts (Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Spirituality, although less studied, provides a value-based channel linking emotional meaning to prosocial entrepreneurial goals (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), particularly in social entrepreneurship. In culturally embedded settings, spirituality not only aligns with prosocial motives but also enhances emotional coherence, contributing to a sense of purpose that reinforces long-term entrepreneurial commitment (Nwibe \u0026amp; Bakare, 2022). These underexplored mediators warrant greater attention in contexts such as social entrepreneurship, where moral salience and emotional purpose often underpin venture creation (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese mediators offer a multidimensional view of how EI translates into entrepreneurial intentions. Rather than a single linear path, the evidence suggests interdependent and context-specific mechanisms (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). This supports the integration of TPB and SCT as complementary frameworks while highlighting the need to explore underexamined mediators\u0026mdash;such as moral obligation, spirituality, or impulse control\u0026mdash;especially in culturally diverse or impact-driven contexts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe following section examines how these emotionally driven mechanisms interact with external conditions, focusing on the moderating role of personality traits, cultural norms, gender, education, and socioeconomic background in the EI\u0026ndash;EInt dynamic.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRole of moderators in the EI-EInt relationship\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe impact of Emotional Intelligence (EI) on Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt) varies considerably depending on moderating variables that influence the strength, direction, and context of this relationship (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The empirical studies reviewed cluster these moderators into three main categories: personality traits, sociocultural factors, and structural-demographic conditions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePersonality traits\u0026mdash;particularly openness, conscientiousness, proactivity, and emotional stability\u0026mdash;consistently moderate how EI translates into entrepreneurial cognition and behaviour (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Individuals high in both EI and openness or proactivity are more likely to seize opportunities through divergent thinking and agentic behaviour, while conscientiousness and emotional stability enhance long-term commitment and effective decision-making under pressure (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). These patterns resonate with the Big Five framework, suggesting that personality profiles condition the extent to which EI fosters resilience, adaptability, and initiative (Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Importantly, this interaction highlights the need to personalise entrepreneurial training according to personality composition. Such differentiation calls for policy frameworks that integrate psychometric assessments into entrepreneurship education, allowing for tailored support based on personality, gender, and cultural profile (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCultural dimensions, particularly those based on Hofstede\u0026rsquo;s individualism\u0026ndash;collectivism spectrum, also shape how EI is mobilised in entrepreneurial contexts (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). In collectivist cultures, EI tends to support social integration and community-oriented entrepreneurship, reinforcing empathy, trust-building, and group conformity (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). However, these same social expectations may limit individual agency and risk-taking. Conversely, in individualist settings, EI more often reinforces autonomy, creative problem-solving, and innovation\u0026mdash;behaviours that align more directly with EInt (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). This cultural interplay underscores the importance of contextualising EI-based interventions in entrepreneurial ecosystems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender emerges as another critical moderator, intersecting with both personality and cultural norms (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Othman \u0026amp; Muda, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Although women often score higher on EI dimensions such as empathy and emotional regulation, these competencies are not always translated into EInt due to structural inequities, lack of capital access, and gendered expectations that discourage entrepreneurial risk-taking (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Othman \u0026amp; Muda, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Nonetheless, these studies highlight that EI enhances resilience and social networking among women entrepreneurs. Without gender-sensitive ecosystems, however, this potential remains underleveraged (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Gender thus moderates not only the psychological link between EI and EInt, but also the responsiveness to education and policy mechanisms.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocioeconomic status (SES) and educational background also modulate how EI is activated in entrepreneurial processes (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Individuals from higher SES contexts benefit from financial, institutional, and informational resources that amplify the strategic use of emotional competencies (Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, those from lower SES backgrounds tend to rely on EI for perseverance and opportunity development under constraint (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e; Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Educational pathways further influence this dynamic: formal academic training may sharpen analytical skills but does not necessarily enhance EInt unless complemented by experiential and emotional learning (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Programmes integrating emotional regulation, interpersonal communication, and resilience\u0026mdash;especially those offering mentoring or incubator support\u0026mdash;appear more effective in translating EI into sustainable entrepreneurial outcomes among disadvantaged groups (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). For example, in studies conducted in Malaysia and Nigeria, participants engaged in EI-centred entrepreneurial bootcamps reported higher perceived feasibility and stronger intention trajectories, particularly among women and low-SES individuals (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Othman \u0026amp; Muda, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaken together, these findings suggest that the influence of EI on EInt is not universally consistent, but rather deeply shaped by individual and contextual moderators. This reinforces the need for ecosystem-level strategies that combine psychological development with cultural sensitivity and structural inclusion. Future research should explore how these moderators interact dynamically, and how tailored interventions can unlock the full entrepreneurial potential of emotionally intelligent individuals across diverse settings.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eEmerging Thematic Patterns in the EI\u0026ndash;EInt Relationship\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe reviewed studies reveal recurrent patterns in how Emotional Intelligence (EI) influences Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), highlighting its multidimensional role in supporting opportunity recognition, motivation, and resilience. Emotional competencies such as adaptability, creativity, and regulation are particularly valuable in volatile and resource-constrained contexts, enabling individuals to navigate adversity while maintaining entrepreneurial drive (Zampetakis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e; Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Yıldırım et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOne notable trend is the moderating effect of cultural and personality variables on the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). In collectivist cultures, EI facilitates social cohesion, prosocial behaviour, and community-driven entrepreneurship (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Hussain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Conversely, individualistic contexts amplify EI\u0026rsquo;s link to autonomy, innovation, and proactive goal pursuit (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Personality traits such as openness, proactivity, and emotional stability influence how EI is translated into entrepreneurial behaviour (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA second emergent pattern involves the rise of Social Entrepreneurial Intentions (SEIs), where EI supports moral obligation, empathy, and commitment to social value creation (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Wahid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). These dynamics are salient in Southeast Asia and Southern Europe, where entrepreneurship often reflects goals of inclusion and collective well-being (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThird, EI plays a critical role in empowering underrepresented groups (Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017b\u003c/span\u003e; Darmanto \u0026amp; Pujiarti, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Al-Tekreeti \u0026amp; Dandis, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). In such contexts, emotionally intelligent individuals rely on regulation, perceived control, and persistence to develop entrepreneurial intent, even without institutional or financial support. EI thus operates as a compensatory resource, supporting resilience and opportunity development.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFourth, several studies underscore the integration of EI training in entrepreneurship education (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Interventions such as design thinking, mentoring, and scenario-based learning enhance mediators\u0026mdash;including self-efficacy, creativity, and interpersonal skills\u0026mdash;among students and marginalised groups, especially in inclusive entrepreneurship settings.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFifth, EI is increasingly linked to digital entrepreneurship, enabling entrepreneurs to manage complex team dynamics, emotionally engage users, and sustain innovation in high-pressure environments (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). Emotional competencies such as creativity, cognitive flexibility, and impulse control act as key mediators in digitally mediated ventures.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNevertheless, methodological limitations persist, as most studies rely on self-report measures, student samples, and cross-sectional data from emerging economies, limiting generalisability and temporal insight (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Future research should adopt longitudinal and ecosystem-level perspectives to better capture the evolution and contextual dynamics of EI in entrepreneurship.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCollectively, these trends highlight the need for theoretical integration and context-sensitive models. The next section discusses the implications of these findings for research and practice, offering a foundation for more emotionally responsive entrepreneurial ecosystems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis review positions Emotional Intelligence (EI) as a core psychological enabler in the formation of Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), complementing traditional drivers such as financial capital and strategic knowledge (Schlaegel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Tiwari et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017a\u003c/span\u003e). EI contributes to the development of essential entrepreneurial competencies\u0026mdash;namely self-efficacy, creativity, and emotional regulation\u0026mdash;that help individuals navigate uncertainty, recognise opportunities, and engage in intentional decision-making (Rodrigues et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBy consolidating previously fragmented evidence, this review maps 22 mediating variables and several moderating factors, offering a comprehensive and contextualised understanding of how EI shapes EInt. This mapping represents a contribution to the literature by clarifying the mechanisms through which emotional competencies operate in entrepreneurial cognition and behaviour. Self-efficacy and creativity emerge as the most consistent and powerful mediators across diverse samples (Mortan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Meanwhile, moderators such as cultural values, gender, personality traits, and socioeconomic status condition the expression of EInt, highlighting the non-uniform nature of the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship across entrepreneurial ecosystems (Miao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe integration of findings through the lenses of the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Social Cognitive Theory reinforces the theoretical grounding of this relationship. By aligning cognitive, affective, and contextual dimensions, the review contributes to a more nuanced and integrative framework for understanding how emotional competencies translate into entrepreneurial motivation, perceived behavioural control, and intentional action (Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e; Bandura, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1986\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrom a methodological standpoint, the literature remains constrained by a predominance of cross-sectional designs, student samples, and a lack of representation from marginalised populations and diverse entrepreneurial settings. Future research should prioritise longitudinal, mixed-method, and ecosystem-level approaches to capture how EI develops over time and interacts with dynamic entrepreneurial environments (Rodrigues \u0026amp; Marques, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Mishra \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOn a practical level, the findings support the integration of emotional intelligence training into entrepreneurship education and policy. Interventions such as mentoring, design thinking, scenario-based learning, and inclusive incubation programmes can foster the emotional and cognitive capabilities required for opportunity-driven entrepreneurship\u0026mdash;particularly among youth, women, and individuals from resource-constrained backgrounds (L\u0026oacute;pez-N\u0026uacute;\u0026ntilde;ez et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Khalid et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinally, future studies should move beyond intention to examine how EI influences venture creation, sustainability, and social impact. As entrepreneurial ecosystems continue to evolve in complexity and diversity, understanding the role of emotional intelligence becomes increasingly vital\u0026mdash;not only to predict intention, but to inform the design of emotionally responsive, inclusive, and impact-driven entrepreneurial systems. Advancing this research agenda calls for interdisciplinary, culturally sensitive models that acknowledge EI not only as a psychological predictor but also as a strategic lever for inclusive and transformative entrepreneurship. These insights can support educators and policymakers in designing entrepreneurship programmes and ecosystems that strategically leverage emotional intelligence to foster inclusive innovation, social cohesion, and long-term entrepreneurial sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003ch2\u003eDeclarations\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003ch2\u003eConflict of interest:\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe authors have no conflict of interest to disclose.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval:\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eInformed consent:\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFunding:\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis work is financed by Portuguese national funds through FCT - Funda\u0026ccedil;\u0026atilde;o para a Ci\u0026ecirc;ncia e Tecnologia, under the project UID/05422/2020.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eConceptualization, validation, formal analysis, and original draft preparations\u0026ndash; Dr. Joana Moreira and Dr. O. L. Rua; Supervision \u0026ndash; Dr. O. L. Rua and Dr. B. Su\u0026aacute;rez-Eiroa; Re-view and editing \u0026ndash; Dr. Joana Moreira ; Methodology \u0026ndash; Dr. Joana Moreira and Dr. O. L. Rua. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eData Availability\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eData will be available upon request by contacting the corresponding author via email.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAl-Tekreeti M, Dandis M (2023) The moderating effect of entrepreneurial motivation on the relationship between entrepreneurial intention and behaviour. Front Psychol 14:1095978\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAjzen I (1991) The theory of planned behaviour. 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J Social Entrepreneurship 8(2):165\u0026ndash;185\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTiwari P, Bhat AK, Tikoria J (2017b) Entrepreneurial intentions among university students: The moderating role of family economic background. J Entrepreneurship Educ 20(2):1\u0026ndash;14\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWahid SDM, Ayob AH, Hussain WMHW (2019) Twinkle twinkle little star: How subjective norm mediates so far? Formation of social entrepreneurship intention in Malaysia. Int J Eng Adv Technol 8(5C):101\u0026ndash;107\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYıldırım F, Trout IY, Hartzell S (2019) How are entrepreneurial intentions affected by emotional intelligence and creativity? Periodica Polytech Social Manage Sci 27(1):59\u0026ndash;65\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZampetakis LA, Kafetsios K, Bouranta N, Dewett T, Moustakis VS (2009) On the relationship between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial attitudes and intentions. Int J Entrepreneurial Behav Res 15(6):595\u0026ndash;618\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"humanities-and-social-sciences-communications","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"palcomms","sideBox":"Learn more about [Humanities \u0026 Social Sciences Communications](http://www.nature.com/palcomms/)","snPcode":"41599","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/41599/3","title":"Humanities and Social Sciences Communications","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Nature AJ","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":false},"keywords":"Emotional Intelligence, Entrepreneurial Intentions, Mediators, Moderators, Systematic Literature Review","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8020734/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8020734/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThis study investigates the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Entrepreneurial Intentions (EInt), examining how mediators and moderators influence this dynamic across cultural and socioeconomic contexts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing the SPAR-4-SLR protocol and ADO-TCM framework, this systematic review synthesizes findings from 18 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024. The study identifies and categorizes mediators and moderators affecting the EI\u0026ndash;EInt relationship.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelf-efficacy, creativity, and components of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control) consistently mediate the EI\u0026ndash;EInt link. Cultural values, personality traits (e.g. proactivity, ambiguity tolerance), gender, and socioeconomic status significantly moderate this relationship, shaping its strength and direction.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese findings offer insights for emotionally intelligent entrepreneurship education and policy design, supporting the development of self-efficacy, creativity and resilience in entrepreneurs.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis review consolidates a fragmented field by offering a comprehensive, theory-driven framework of how EI influences EInt, highlighting context-sensitive mechanisms and identifying directions for future research.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Unpacking the Emotional Intelligence–Entrepreneurial Intentions Link: A Systematic Review of Mediators and Moderators","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-12-19 18:12:31","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8020734/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2026-04-22T07:03:01+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-14T12:26:16+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"219484948723247431257717853987233595858","date":"2026-04-11T04:22:53+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"207716404679844360795418066109060249731","date":"2026-02-05T10:57:05+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-02-04T16:55:23+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"230885284095832307174744872501586729025","date":"2025-12-25T04:03:03+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"258439461363420731888133255508992706666","date":"2025-12-22T15:43:35+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2025-12-17T08:10:44+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-12-11T00:18:16+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2025-12-09T11:19:39+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-11-21T20:48:45+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Humanities and Social Sciences Communications","date":"2025-11-21T20:45:36+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"humanities-and-social-sciences-communications","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"palcomms","sideBox":"Learn more about [Humanities \u0026 Social Sciences Communications](http://www.nature.com/palcomms/)","snPcode":"41599","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/41599/3","title":"Humanities and Social Sciences Communications","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Nature AJ","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":false}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"580b4dda-6415-4e2f-9773-1cda65f99316","owner":[],"postedDate":"December 19th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[{"id":59917184,"name":"Business and commerce/Business and management"},{"id":59917185,"name":"Social science/Business and management"},{"id":59917186,"name":"Humanities/Cultural and media studies"},{"id":59917187,"name":"Social science/Cultural and media studies"},{"id":59917188,"name":"Business and commerce/Information systems and information technology"},{"id":59917189,"name":"Biological sciences/Psychology"},{"id":59917190,"name":"Social science/Psychology"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-05-09T01:55:00+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-12-19 18:12:31","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8020734","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8020734","identity":"rs-8020734","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}