The Effects of Migratory Village Residents’ Social Identity on Community Participation in Tourism

Abstract

Previous studies have examined influencing factors on community participation in tourism, however, the application of social identity theory to the study of community participation in tourism has been under-researched. This study examines the influence of social identity of migratory village residents on community participation in tourism based on a structural equation modeling approach. Deploying a survey on 364 residents in Simatai new village in China, the findings show that residents’ community identity, regional identity, and occupational identity have a significant positive impact on their attitude toward supporting tourism and community participation in tourism. Residents’ support for tourism has a mediating effect between social identity and community participation. Accordingly, it is suggested that local governments should pay more attention to the construction of the community and carry out ongoing tourism education programs for residents, which ensures their recognition and support for the community and the development of tourism, and promotes community participation in tourism.