GENDER FACTOR AND ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION AMONG STUDENT OF DELTA STATE POLYTECHNIC OGWASHI-UKU

This chapter is concerned with the review of related literature on gender factor and entrepreneurial intention among students with particular reference to Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku. 2.1 Conceptual Framework 2.1.1 Concept of Gender Factor The concept of gender factor refers to the influence of socially constructed roles, behaviors, expectations, and attributes associated with being male or female on various aspects of human behavior and decision-making. Gender is not merely a biological distinction but encompasses the societal norms and cultural expectations that shape how individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others within specific contexts (Eagly & Wood, 2012). In the field of entrepreneurship, gender has been recognized as a significant determinant influencing individuals’ attitudes, intentions, and actions related to business start-ups. Research indicates that men and women often differ in their entrepreneurial motivations, risk-taking tendencies, access to resources, and overall confidence in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures (Brush et al., 2006). These differences are frequently attributed to gender stereotypes, structural inequalities, and varying socialization patterns, which can either promote or hinder entrepreneurial engagement. Within the academic environment, gender may influence how students perceive entrepreneurship as a viable career path. For instance, societal