The moderating role of tourism intensity on residents’ intentions towards pro-tourism behaviours

Abstract

This study analysed the complex dynamics of tourism based on perspectives and intentional behaviours of residents. The analysis focused on how residents perceive the effects of tourism, their satisfaction with it, their subjective well-being, and their inclinations towards pro-tourism behaviours. By merging social exchange theory and bottom-up spillover theory, it also investigates tourism intensity (TI) as a moderator, which has been understudied. A representative sample of 990 residents, in both high and low TI municipalities of the Algarve region, was surveyed. The model was estimated using PLS-SEM. The results revealed significant differences in residents’ perceptions based on TI. Residents in high TI areas perceived stronger effects on satisfaction due to negative and positive impacts of tourism. However, TI did not affect the relationships between satisfaction with tourism, subjective well-being, and intentions for pro-tourism behaviours. The economic gains created by tourism may differ from the social and psychological factors shaping residents’ well-being. These outcomes offer valuable insights for destination managers and politicians, aiding in the development of strategies to alleviate the adverse effects of tourism. Directing efforts towards improving residents’ satisfaction with tourism, subjective well-being, and support for tourism can also contribute to securing long-term and sustainable benefits for host communities.