• Journal of Service Research and Studies
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• v.14 no.3
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• pp.46-59
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• 2024

The purpose of this study is to understand how the image of a tourist destination perceived by potential tourists, who indirectly experience negative incidents through social media, affects their behavioral intentions. Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, the relationship between image and behavioral intention is explained through attitudes toward the destination, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Furthermore, the study analyzes whether the quality of the relationship with the tourist destination perceived by potential tourists moderates the relationship between the image of the destination and attitudes toward it when exposed to negative incidents. A scenario-based survey was conducted with 256 potential Chinese tourists. The results showed that the overall image of the destination had a positive effect (+) on attitudes toward the destination, subjective norms, and perceived control. In turn, attitudes toward the destination, subjective norms, and perceived control all positively (+) influenced behavioral intentions. Lastly, the moderating effect of relationship quality between overall image and attitudes toward the destination was verified. The implications of this study suggest that when negative incidents occur at a tourist destination, negative images can be perceived. Therefore, local governments should ensure thorough inspections and enforcement regarding pricing, services, and illegal operations to prevent such occurrences. Additionally, destination marketers should strive to enhance marketing management and promotion efforts, particularly working to establish positive relationship quality with tourists who have previously visited the destination.