Abstract
Backpacker identity has attracted growing attention in backpacker tourism research. However, there still lacks a valid scale to measure backpacker identity. Guided by Social Identity Theory (SIT), this study aims to develop and validate a scale to measure backpacker identity in the Chinese context. The study used two Chinese backpacker samples in two stages (Study 1, n=190; Study 2, n=323) to establish the psychometric properties of a backpacker identity scale (BIS). Following the process of scale development, a three-dimension (i.e., self-categorization, group self-value, and group self-evaluation) backpacker identity measurement model was identified. The refined scale with 16 measurement items was finally identified with sufficient reliability and validity. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
2020
Publication Title
Journal of Travel Research
Publisher
Sage Publications
School
School of Business and Law
RAS ID
28484
Funders
Funding information available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287519829255
Comments
This is an Author's Accepted Manuscript of: Chen, G., Zhao, L., & Huang, S. (2020). Backpacker identity: Scale development and validation. Journal of Travel Research, 59(2) 281 - 294. Available here