WeChat relationships maintenance behavior and social entrepreneurial intention under conditions of dual narcissism: the mediating role of social capital

Purpose As social networking sites (SNSs) gain popularity, they are being widely used by entrepreneurs to obtain social capital to carry out business ventures. However not all SNS usage behaviors promote entrepreneurship. Only when individuals actively participate in SNSs relationship maintenance behaviors they can obtain resources that are conducive to promoting social entrepreneurship. The aim of this study is to explore the role of WeChat relationship maintenance behavior (WRMB) on social entrepreneurial intention (SEI) with dual narcissism as an essential antecedent that affects SNS use. Design/methodology/approach Based on dual narcissism theory and the theoretical framework that networking is a critical skill and activity for the success of social entrepreneurship, this study proposes a serial mediation model that explores the formation of SEI. This study collected data from a sample of 275 MBA students in China and applied multiple regression and confirmatory factor analysis techniques to test the research model. Findings The results reveal narcissistic admiration (NA) is positively associated with WRMB, while narcissistic rivalry (NR) is negatively associated with such behavior. And the positive impact of NA on SEI can be explained by WRMB and social capital paths, while the negative impact of NR cannot. Originality/value This research is the first application of dual narcissism in the field of SEI, which provides a new way to explain the antecedents of SEI under the social network. The findings provide an effective reference path for social entrepreneurship education in universities and educational institutions and enlighten the correct distinction between dual narcissism in entrepreneurial psychological consultation.