BEHAVIORAL ASPECTS AND THE ROLE OF THE PERIPHERAL ENTREPRENEUR: MYTHS AND SKILLS

Abstract

Peripheral entrepreneurship has emerged as an important mechanism for income generation, social inclusion, and local development in areas marked by socioeconomic vulnerabilities. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the behavioral competencies and the role of the peripheral entrepreneur, focusing on debunking myths associated with entrepreneurship and understanding the social impacts produced by their practices in the municipality of Diadema, São Paulo. The research adopted a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews conducted with entrepreneurs active in peripheral regions. The data were examined through content analysis, supported by NVivo software, enabling the categorization and interpretation of the empirical evidence in light of the theoretical framework. The results reveal that peripheral entrepreneurs develop relevant behavioral competencies—such as resilience, creativity, leadership, and adaptability—that enable them to overcome structural limitations and challenges arising from contexts of vulnerability and social stigmatization. Furthermore, the evidence challenges traditional conceptions of entrepreneurship by demonstrating that these agents promote innovation, strengthen community networks, stimulate the local economy, and generate positive social impacts in their territories. As a theoretical contribution, the study broadens the understanding of peripheral entrepreneurship from the perspective of behavioral competencies, challenging established myths in the literature. Methodologically, it reinforces the usefulness of content analysis supported by NVivo for research in complex social contexts. Finally, the social and managerial contributions highlight the potential of peripheral entrepreneurship to promote autonomy, inclusion, and local development, providing insights for the formulation of public policies and strategies to strengthen businesses in vulnerable communities.