Career orientation of family members in family businesses: a choice or an obligation?

Manuscript code article-28285
DOI 10.1108/jts-04-2025-0015
Keywords: Career choice Family business TPB Socioemotional wealth Succession Qualitative study

Abstract

PurposeThis study investigates whether family members choose to join the family business out of personal interest or perceived obligation, drawing on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and socioemotional wealth (SEW) theory.Design/methodology/approachUsing a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten family business members.FindingsResults show that career orientation ranges from voluntary choice to obligation. Some participants join the business out of alignment with personal goals, while others are influenced by family expectations, emotional ties and legacy concerns. Subjective norms and SEW significantly shape decision-making.Originality/valueThis study extends TPB by integrating emotional and relational dynamics from SEW theory, offering a richer understanding of career decisions in family firms through qualitative insights.

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Birgach, Hiba ESCA Ecole de Management, Casablanca, Morocco

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Published March 10, 2026
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DOI: 10.1108/jts-04-2025-0015

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