Bounded Emotionality and Polygamous Tradition in an Entrepreneurial Family Businesses in Nigeria

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to examine bounded emotionality and polygamous tradition in an entrepreneurial family business in Nigeria. We argue that it is essential to consider culture of polygamy among family firms especially in the south west Nigeria. The multiple case method was used to provide valuable insights into entrepreneurial family businesses in Nigeria. To achieve better results, cases were drawn from diverse business sectors like merchandising, manufacturing and consultancy services among the family firms in South West, Nigeria. The paper analyses the limit of bounded emotionality, impact of nepotism and family ties in the polygamous family businesses. The findings reveal that the polygamous tradition has being in existence mostly in Africa for decades, hence, it brings some degree of sensitivity and unison to the family business. Finally, the paper demonstrates the importance of conducting further research on the concept of polygamy in Africa and tis impact on the family business.