From generative AI usage to entrepreneurial intention: The sequential roles of task and social self-efficacy

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is rapidly evolving and creating new possibilities for supporting students' entrepreneurial development. However, limited research has examined how GAI usage is associated with entrepreneurial intention (EI) through specific psychological pathways. Drawing on self-efficacy theory, this study examines the relationship between GAI usage and EI, focusing on the mediating roles of task and social self-efficacy. Using survey data from 521 Chinese university students, this study empirically tests the proposed model. The results show that GAI usage is positively associated with students' task and social self-efficacy. However, task self-efficacy (TSE) is not directly associated with EI. In contrast, social self-efficacy (SSE) accounts for a significant indirect association between GAI usage and EI. Moreover, a significant sequential indirect association is observed, linking GAI usage with EI through TSE and SSE. By disentangling the distinct roles of TSE and SSE, this study shows that the association between GAI usage and EI is consistent with pathways that differ in their functions and proximity to entrepreneurial action. The findings also provide practical insights for entrepreneurship education and AI-supported learning environments.