A gender perspective on career preferences and self-efficacy in South Africa

Abstract

To advance the study of entrepreneurship, this study examines how gender, career preferences, and self-efficacy interact in the South African context, applying Intersectional-Marxist Feminist frameworks to investigate systemic restrictions on women's participation in entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial self-efficacy, as an indicator of an individual's perception of their ability to perform entrepreneurial activities, is influenced by gender expectations, sectoral involvement, and local economic environments. Although there has been extensive research on gender variation in entrepreneurship, there are limited studies on how racial politics, economic stratification, and structural inequalities affect self-efficacy and career choice in South Africa. The survey data was collected among 188 respondents utilizing a questionnaire that was scripted on Qualtrics. The study employs a quantitative design, making use of survey data analyzed with SPSS to investigate differences in risk-taking among women and men, confidence in leadership, innovation, and financial control. Statistical analysis, including t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analysis, is used to determine significant predictors of entrepreneurial preference and career outcomes. Evidence indicates that males have higher scores in risk-taking and leadership self-efficacy than females, with age and education levels playing significant roles in predicting entrepreneurial confidence. Self-efficacy ratings also vary depending on industry and region, and the finance and technology sectors achieve the highest levels of confidence scores, while Gauteng and Western Cape have the entrepreneurial tendencies most reported. The research adds to the theoretical literature on gendered entrepreneurship through the application of Intersectional-Marxist Feminism to analyze structural constraints on female entrepreneurs. The research underscores the importance of policy interventions, mentorship initiatives, and gender-mainstreamed finance support systems in reducing systemic barriers and closing self-efficacy gaps and promoting inclusive entrepreneurship. The research offers real-world implications for policymakers, educators, and industry players to create focused strategies for advancing gender equity in business and economic growth.