자기결정 이론에 기반한 창업 결정 요인 분석: KAIST IP영재기업인교육원 수료생 사례를 중심으로

[Purpose]This study aims to analyze how psychological factors－autonomy, competence, and relatedness－affect the entrepreneurial decision－making process of graduates from the KAIST IP－CEO program, based on Self－Determination Theory (SDT). [Methodology]This study used a qualitative research method, analyzing the testimonials of 17 graduates from the KAIST IP－CEO program. Using Self－Determination Theory as an analytical framework, key examples were extracted according to three factors(autonomy, competence, and relatedness) and subtypes were classified to interpret the psychological influence of the program experience on the graduates’ entrepreneurial decisions. [Findings]Autonomy Experiences helped graduates make entrepreneurial decisions based on their values and goals, while experiences of competence contributed to strengthening entrepreneurial skills and building confidence. Additionally, experiences of relatedness provided graduates with support from mentors and peers, enabling them to sustain their entrepreneurial commitment. These three factors reinforced the graduates' entrepreneurial decision－making and motivation. [Implications]This study suggests that youth entrepreneurship education programs can effectively support students’ entrepreneurial intentions by fulfilling their psychological needs, advocatin