Decoding ethnic food selection at religious tourism sites: exploring self­congruity and the influence of social media celebrities’ intimate selfdisclosure

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the effect of symbolic and functional congruity on pilgrims’ intention to buy ethnic food which leads toward behavior in the religious tourism context. Moreover, the moderating effect of social media celebrities’ intimate disclosures (SMCs-ISD) on the association between intention and behavior is also tested. Design/methodology/approach A survey was conducted to collect data, and 443 participants provided valid responses. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling was used to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings The findings demonstrate that actual and ideal self-image significantly influence the symbolic congruence whereas quality, health and price are significantly associated with functional congruence. In addition, symbolic and functional congruence is significantly related to pilgrims’ intention to use ethnic food which in turn influences their behavior. Moreover, the moderating effect of SMCs-ISD is also found significant. Originality/value Grounded in self-congruity theory, this study explores the impact of functional and symbolic congruity on pilgrims’ intentions to buy ethnic food in religious tourism. It addresses the intention-behavior gap by examining the moderating effect of SMCs-ISD through the lens of parasocial relationship theory. This dual theoretical approach offers new insights into how self-congruity and social media influence shape consumer behavior in this unique context.