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Impact of Family Health on the Monetary Success of the Entrepreneur: Entrepreneur-Spouse-Child Interdependence

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Entrepreneurs’ earnings are shaped by both individual and family health, yet the interdependent effects of entrepreneur, spouse, and child health remain understudied. National Health Interview Survey data from 2010 to 2018 show disproportionate and contrasting effects of family health on an entrepreneur’s earnings for married vs. single parents and male vs. female entrepreneurs. While an entrepreneur’s poor health negatively impacts their earnings, a spouse’s health only affects the earnings of male entrepreneurs. Poor child health negatively impacts the earnings of married mothers but not fathers. However, poor child health negatively impacts the earnings of single fathers. The study highlights the need for effective health management plans targeting entrepreneurs’ heterogeneity by marital status and gender, focusing on the family rather than the individual.

Source: Entrepreneurship Research Journal

DOI: 10.1515/erj-2024-0549

Authors: Nadeeka Weerasekara, Paul Lewin, Monica Fisher

Institutions: University of Idaho, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, World Agroforestry Centre

Language: English

Topic: Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Good health and well-being, No poverty, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,712