Perspectives on Travelling and Identity: Activating Self-Concepts According to Different Cultural Contexts
Journal Title: Journal of Tourism and Services - Year 2013, Vol 4, Issue 5
Abstract
The presented study aims to approach the complex topic of travelling and identity. Being a traveler in a certain country and its cultural context is always influencing the general and situative identity. Certain parts of the own identity can be reinforced or neglected. Greve [27] showed that there is an activation of different self-concepts according to different cultural contexts. This paper is based on an empirical research in order to investigate these aspects. It is the first empirical study done concerning self-organized travelling and identity. To study this, an open approach was used following the principles of grounded theory [26]. The method applied was a half-structured interview. 110 face to face were carried out with persons from 11 countries and therefore different cultural backgrounds. The data was analyzed using the methods of content analysis [39]. Travelling and longer and stays abroad update both the dynamic as well as the static aspect. Travelling interestingly resulted in context related identity modifications as well as in the stabilization / consolidation of certain other areas of identity. Values and criteria for values had been changed as well as tendencies to act, habits and expectations of self-efficacy. More than 40% of the interviewees considered travelling as a phase of self-positioning, similar to the moratorium. Identity changes had been proved especially in 3 areas: self and personality, values and behaviour. In the area of self & personality had been evidence especially for processes of self-updating, self-expansion (in adding new features and nuances to the self). The qualitative research revealed a clear connection of travel motivation, place, cultural context and identity. There is evidence that searching for certain different contextual variables systematically help to add new facets to identity. Travel motivation and behavior is quite often connected to certain biographical stages and values with respect to cultural settings. It implies various cognitive and behavioral consequences which can last for a long time according to the duration and personal value of the travel or special travel phases. Most of the empirical data showed phases of 2-4 years with a certain preference for one or more countries with similar features.
Authors and Affiliations
Martina Zschocke
Keywords
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