Growth dynamics and emotions in limited growth and a non-structured family business group: the case of Tunisia
by Rym Bouderbala
International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business (IJGSB), Vol. 12, No. 2, 2021

Abstract: The family business (FB) literature highlights two main factors underlying the issue of limited growth: cognitive and emotional. This study aims to understand better the influence of the emotional dimension on the growth dynamics of FBs over time. Based on the founder centrality, this research uses the growth state approach and the component process model from the appraisal theory of emotion, to understand how discrete emotions impact FB's growth decision-making. A qualitative study of six Tunisian founders of 24 non-structured family business (NSFB) groups who deliberately decided to limit growth was conducted. Findings show that the growth dynamic is based on two transition sequences each lasting more than two decades: from the creation to a high growth state, then from a high growth state to a plateaued growth state. Fear, anger and sadness recognition in transitioning to the plateaued growth state indicate the situations that are causing blockages in the founder's ability to achieve his goals, low coping potential and doubts about the future expectations of the NSFB group.

Online publication date: Tue, 27-Apr-2021

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