Intention to engage in financial planning: does motivation matter?

Purpose This study examined the relationship between perceived autonomy support from parents and personal finance intention through the factors of situational motivation and attitudes to personal finance among youth. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 488 youths. The hypothesized model was tested and assessed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Findings The results revealed that perceived autonomy support contributed to youths’ financial planning intention. While parents’ autonomy support was directly related to different types of situational motivation, only identified and intrinsic motivation were associated with personal finance attitudes, which consequently led to financial planning intention. Originality/value This research contributes to the integration of self-determination theory and the theory of planned behaviour, incorporating perceived autonomy support as a key factor in understanding financial planning intentions among youth. The findings enhance our understanding of how situational motivation and parental support shape young people’s financial attitudes and intentions.