Dysfunctional tourism behaviors in national parks: An exploration of causes, typologies, and consequences in the case of Saharan tourism

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This study explores a seldom explored area of inappropriate tourist behavior in African national parks in the Sahara through a case study to support the management and promotion of tourism activities. Using the critical incident technique, 09 frontline employees of the Tassili N'ajjer National Park in Algeria were interviewed to identify tourist behavior that deviates from generally accepted social norms. Based on the survey results, a theoretical framework consisting of seven causes, nine categories of inappropriate behaviors, and three consequence dimensions was constructed. This theoretical framework provides elements for critical discussion of the sustainability of tourism in national parks, as well as a basis for further research. The results also enrich the literature on the subject and provide a basis for the study of North-South tourism dynamics. Theoretical and managerial implications are also discussed. Managerial implicationsThis research study significantly enhances the strategies employed in the management of national parks and protected areas in several ways. Identifying incentives for Jaycustomer behaviorPoor enforcement of regulations, lack of supervision, low prices, lack of knowledge, ambiguity of experience, egocentricity (common tragedy), anonymity and ethnocentrism are the underlying motivations for inappropriate tourist behavior. Expanded Understanding of Jaycustomer BehaviorIn addition to the categories of jaycustomer behavior identified in previous studies, this research unveils tourist behaviors that have been rarely documented in the literature. These include disengagement, dishonesty, pollution, noise, and waste. Influential Situational FactorsThe study finds that the perceived legitimacy of regulations and the level of supervision are the most influential situational factors affecting jaycustomer behavior. The necessary actions include the need for solid regulation, enforced through vigilant control measures and sanctions, and the improvement of guide performance through staff education and training. Impact of Poor Assimilation and Lack of InformationThe research highlights that poor assimilation of park regulations and a lack of information about them exacerbate cognitive biases in judgment formation, shedding light on the importance of effective communication and education strategies.