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Abstract

An exploratory analysis of the identity, characteristics, and business contributions of persons designated significant others by 102 female business owners was conducted. Drawing on social interaction theories, a typology of attributes for such others was developed, and elements of those attributes were assessed. Significant other contribution dimensions were identified, and further elaborated in terms of identity and characteristic variables. The most meaningful contributions were to specific business needs, and were provided by spouses, siblings, and male friends. The results showed a pragmatic approach to accepting aid from significant others, based not on the role of the other but on his or her actual ability to contribute.

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Factors of Friendship: Relevance of Significant Others to Female Business Owners

Abstract

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