Kevin Groves’ Research on Balancing Thinking Styles for Better Entrepreneurial Decision Making Published in the Journal of Small Business Management

In a significant contribution to the field of entrepreneurial cognition, Pepperdine Graziadio faculty member Dr. Kevin S. Groves along with co-author Dr. Charles M. Vance, has published a pivotal study in the Journal of Small Business Management. The research, titled "Avoiding Critical Entrepreneurial Cognitive Errors through Linear/Nonlinear Thinking Style Balance," explores the essential balance between linear and nonlinear thinking styles for effective entrepreneurial decision-making.

This study explores how balancing analytical, logical thinking (linear) with intuitive, creative thinking (nonlinear) can mitigate two common cognitive biases—representativeness bias and status quo bias. These biases often hinder effective decision-making in entrepreneurial contexts. The research involved 261 business professionals who completed surveys assessing their thinking styles and decision-making scenarios.

Key findings of the study reveal that a linear thinking style helps avoid representativeness bias, while a nonlinear thinking style reduces status quo bias. More importantly, a balance between linear and nonlinear thinking styles effectively averts both cognitive biases, fostering better decision-making and promoting organizational innovation.

The research has important implications for entrepreneurship education, suggesting that cultivating a balance of thinking styles in entrepreneurs can enhance their decision-making capabilities and drive innovation. Based on key finding, the study also provides practical guidance for designing entrepreneurship education programs.

Read the full study here.