The effects of a behavioral-analytical intervention on entrepreneurship: a quasi-experimental study

Purpose This study aims to identify evidence of effectiveness of the behavioral analytical method that was developed to develop entrepreneurs in organizational innovation contexts. Design/methodology/approach To promote contributions to this theme, the present work refers to a quasi-experimental study that aimed to analyze the effects of a behavioral-analytical method on the development of entrepreneurs. Thirty-two volunteer professionals from a philanthropic health institution took part, divided into nine different groups. The procedure was based on the intervention guidelines of two protocols, the first aimed at developing managerial aspects and the second at the behavioral aspects of entrepreneurs. Each group took part in 12 meetings, lasting an average of 60 min and held remotely. Pre- and post-test measures were used to measure the effects of the method on entrepreneurial intention, entrepreneurial potential, psychological flexibility and resilience. Findings The results of the group comparison analysis showed statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-intervention means for entrepreneurial intention (0.50), total entrepreneurial potential (0.50), opportunity (0.58), planning (0.39), goals (0.46) and psychological flexibility (0.37). Research limitations/implications This study has some limitations, including: the fact that it did not include a control group in which MACT was not inserted and with which the results could be compared, limits the generalization of the findings, which should be analyzed with caution; in addition, this is a single study and the analyses presented could not be compared to previous data, leaving gaps regarding the ecological validity of its results. Practical implications The novelty of a method developed to be taught by psychologists trained in the subject of entrepreneurship demonstrates that this study brings promising preliminary results and allows for important reflections, as it is characterized by the ability to strengthen the development of some psychological aspects of entrepreneurs. It is especially noteworthy that this is a quasi-experimental study that uses an innovative proposal in aspects such as: combining business activities and specific psychological activities in the same program; using mentors specialized in behavioral issues (psychologist) and business issues working simultaneously; and occurring 100% remotely. Above all, this is a study in which positive and significant results have already been observed, albeit preliminary, in relation to general entrepreneurial potential and the intention to undertake at levels that surpass similar programs and even those of longer duration. No less important, it also evaluated and presented significant results for psychological flexibility, a psychological aspect that has still been little studied, but which has a high potential to impact entrepreneurs in their interaction with challenging and uncertain environments. Social implications It was carried out with a target audience little investigated in the area of entrepreneurship, that is, intrapreneurs working in public health institutions. A population that also experiences situations in which there are many opportunities and needs for innovation. Originality/value This is an exclusive program developed by psychologists to be used in corporate contexts. It can promote the development of entrepreneurship and innovation while simultaneously developing the psychological aspects of entrepreneurs. It enables people who have never been entrepreneurs before to undertake and achieve significant results.