NCJ Number
141632
Date Published
Unknown
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study reviews relevant empirical studies to profile both criminal and noncriminal entrepreneurs.
Abstract
Entrepreneurs are self-starters who have organized and built their own enterprises. The primary goals of both noncriminal and criminal entrepreneurs are growth and profit. Criminal entrepreneurs are typically drug dealers who organize a drug enterprise much as a legitimate entrepreneur would organize a business. Both criminal entrepreneurs and successful noncriminal entrepreneurs often live with high levels of anxiety. Fears of failure and defeat are the most common causes of this anxiety. For both groups, any available leisure time is spent almost exclusively in solitary activities. They tend to be "misfits" who are internally controlled, alienated, and formerly unaccepted by society. In failing to respond to socialization, they are often forced to become self-employed to survive. Due to a low satisfaction with prior conditions (a result of displacement), entrepreneurs develop strong motivations and aspirations to achieve a goal. Being governed by an internal locus of control and a high need for achievement and independence, they are often aggressive and controlling in their personality. This behavior alienates them from others and prevents them from achieving close relationships with others. Entrepreneurs' individualism enables them to withstand emotional assaults and ego threats. Admirable traits such as honesty, integrity, and regard for social good are not typically traits possessed by either criminal or noncriminal entrepreneurs. 19 references