It takes a couple to tango: Antecedents to collaborative decision-making

Abstract

Existing research on vacation-related choices in couples concentrates on variables related to roles and influence in attempt to explain decision-making processes. However, as experienced from 2019–2021 COVID pandemic, travel-related decisions in couples may be characterized by higher complexity and risks, both in relation to health and economy. As the consequences of such decisions may affect both partners, the couples might benefit from a collaborative approach. This study investigates how certain known facilitators of group collaboration are associated with romantic couples’ perception of collaboration in the context of vacation choices. The data were collected by means of a cross sectional design, and 112 individuals from Norway who were in romantic relationships completed the survey. Multi-item scales were used and validated with factor analysis; the hypotheses were tested using multiple regression. Four of the five hypotheses were empirically supported, and shared experiences, flexibility, engagement, and partners’ support positively affected the perception of collaborative decision-making. No effect was found for role exchange. The results of this study may help to gain a better understanding of how couples make decisions together, and how firms can adapt their communication and service design to increase their appeal to this large tourism segment.