Consumer Ethnocentric Tourist Behavior: A Meta-Synthesis Approach

Oveisi, Leila; Yavari Gohar, Fatemeh; Mahmoudzadeh, Seyed Mojtabi; Amiri, Maghsoud

doi:10.22034/cbsj.2026.143027.2810

Consumer Ethnocentric Tourist Behavior: A Meta-Synthesis Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Tourism Education Department, Faculty of Management and Accounting - Allameh Tabatabai University

² Department of Tourism Management, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Allameh Tabatabaei University, Tehran, Iran

³ Industrial Management and Information Technology Department, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/cbsj.2026.143027.2810

Abstract

This study aims to identify and configure the key components influencing consumer ethnocentrism in the context of domestic tourism. Consumer ethnocentrism is defined here as the conscious preference for domestic destinations motivated by support for national production and the enhancement of the domestic tourism industry. The study is developmental-applied in nature and adopts a qualitative approach. A comprehensive conceptual model was developed using meta-synthesis and the systematic seven-step framework of Sandelowski and Barroso. Data were collected from relevant studies published between 1987 and 2024 in reputable databases and analyzed using ATLAS.ti software.The final analysis identified 73 conceptual codes, among which "cultural openness," "patriotism," and "hostility" had the highest frequencies. These codes were organized into 29 basic themes and 6 organizing themes.The resulting conceptual model, incorporating domestic tourists’ perceptions alongside psychological, cultural, economic, and political dimensions, offers a more comprehensive perspective than previous models. It provides a practical framework for policymakers to design effective domestic tourism marketing strategies, enhance national branding, and strengthen internal travel demand in the face of international competition. Furthermore, by distinguishing between consumer ethnocentrism in services (tourism) and in goods, the study opens new avenues for interdisciplinary research in tourism and consumer behavior.

Keywords