This study investigates the relationship between entrepreneurship and mental well-being in China, considering the mediating roles of work autonomy and subjective socioeconomic status (SES). Using data from the Chinese General Social Survey (2010-2021), the study finds that entrepreneurs experience higher positive and lower negative mental well-being than employees. Mediation analysis reveals that subjective SES, rather than work autonomy, significantly mediates the relationship between entrepreneurship and mental well-being. These findings highlight the importance of SES-related psychological functioning in the mental health of Chinese entrepreneurs.

Jiankun Liu, Yueyun Zhang