From net effects to configurations: an integrated SCT–SDT model of digital entrepreneurial intention using PLS-SEM and fsQCA

Purpose This study aims to reshape digital entrepreneurship research by investigating how motivational, cognitive, and emotional factors affect digital entrepreneurial intention (DEI). It integrates social cognitive theory (SCT) and self-determination theory (SDT). For the first time, fear of digital failure (FDF) and digital entrepreneurial self-efficacy (DESE) are introduced into the research model. Design/methodology/approach The study employed a cross-sectional design and convenience sampling to collect quantitative data. Following data cleaning in SPSS, 269 responses were included in the final analysis. Subsequently, the hypotheses were evaluated using partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). To strengthen the findings, the results were further validated with fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Findings The outcomes unveil that intrinsic motivation (IM) is the strongest predictor of students’ DEI. Further, DESE and extrinsic motivation (EM) also have positive effects on DEI. In contrast, FDF exerts a negative but statistically insignificant impact on DEI. FDF does not moderate the relationship between IM and DEI, or between EM and DEI. These results suggest that motivational and self-efficacy factors are more important than FDF in determining DEI. Originality/value This study contributes by integrating the SCT and SDT frameworks into one research model. It highlights IM’s dominant role and FDF’s limited impact. The findings show that combining motivational, cognitive, and inhibitory mechanisms is key to developing future digital entrepreneurs. Notably, bringing together PLS-SEM and fsQCA paints a richer, more nuanced picture of the forces shaping DEI. Insights from fsQCA deepen and reinforce those from PLS-SEM.