AN INTEGRATIVE MODEL OF TOURISTS’ INFORMATION SEARCH BEHAVIOR

Abstract

Abstract This article develops a comprehensive theoretical model that integrates the psychological/motivational, economics, and processing approaches into a cohesive whole for understanding tourists’ information seeking behavior. The model proposes that for immediate pre-purchase information needs, a consumer is likely to utilize either internal or external sources, or both. The search is likely to be influenced directly by the perceived internal and external costs, and the level of involvement required. Familiarity and expertise, learning and previous visits indirectly influence the search. Their influences are mediated by familiarity and expertise with the destination, which are, in turn, mediated by external and internal costs. Twenty-one propositions are developed for future testing.