Using self-determination theory to assess the tourism service product at local level: the case of North Cyprus
Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
ISSN: 1755-4217
Article publication date: 13 May 2022
Issue publication date: 1 July 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This study draws on self-determination theory (SDT) and describes a study that elucidates how motivation can be fostered in the local management context. The study aims to provide state and local officials with a decision-making tool that allows evaluation of the quantity and quality of the public services by using SDT to interact with locals and students.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative approach and thematic analysis (TA) were used to find common themes and to develop an in-depth insight by gathering specific information from the point of view of local residents. In total, 19 interviews with locals were conducted using questions drawn from SDT.
Findings
The study found that the most significant obstacles were autonomy, competence and relatedness to intrinsic and extrinsic factors such as managing budgets, provision of basic services such as waste management, accessibility and support for local non-government organisations and local festivals and lack of knowledge about sustainable tourism product development among local residents.
Originality/value
Although there is growing knowledge related to environmental and social concern, the municipality's engagement level in this area is low. Hence, the study provides state and local officials with a decision-making tool to evaluate public services' quantity and quality through the SDT on locals and students, and it is significant to explain the application of SDT to the tourism service at the local level and its potential to develop sustainable tourism.
Keywords
Citation
Guden, N. and Safaeimanesh, F. (2022), "Using self-determination theory to assess the tourism service product at local level: the case of North Cyprus", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 14 No. 4, pp. 329-338. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-03-2022-0042
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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