The social identities of Japanese backpackers

Document Type

Journal Article

Publisher

Cognizant Communication Corporation

Faculty

Faculty of Business and Law

School

School of Business

RAS ID

17561

Comments

Bui H.T., Wilkins H.C., Lee Y.-S. (2014). The social identities of Japanese backpackers. Tourism, Culture and Communication, 13(3), 147-159. Available here

Abstract

This research adopted a qualitative approach with data collected through in-depth interviews, informal conversations, and participant observation to identify the social identities of Japanese young travelers in relation to their group dynamic. The findings indicate that the diversity of out-group interactions with travelers from different countries enhances cross-cultural understanding and language learning, while in-group interactions with other Japanese offer a pseudohome while traveling. The issue of identity ambivalence is important as the spheres of familiarity and diversity in travel group interactions are dynamic and complementary. The current research furthers our understanding of the interrelation between culture, communication, and the action of travel among independent travelers.

DOI

10.3727/109830414X13911221027407

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