Social Determinants of the Culture of Self-Employment: A Field Study on a Sample of Youth in Misrata

Abstract

This study aims to shed light on the reality of self-employment and the attitudes of Libyan youth toward it, recognizing its growing importance as a key sector in driving economic and social development. The study investigates young people's awareness of self-employment culture and the main factors shaping it. A questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 30 young individuals engaged in self-employment. The results revealed that the majority of participants are well-informed about the nature and types of self-employment commonly pursued by youth. The study also found that families play a significant role in promoting self-employment culture through guidance and encouragement. Moreover, participants' motivation for self-employment stems from several factors, including higher income potential, a desire to avoid public sector jobs, and the perception that self-employment improves socioeconomic conditions and fosters independence.