Factors affecting residents’ support for tourism development in protected natural areas

Abstract The objective of this article is to analyze the factors influencing residents’ support for tourism development in protected areas. To this end, a hypothetical-deductive, descriptive study was developed, using a quantitative analytical survey. The sample consisted of 180 respondents living in Natal, RN who were visiting the state unit Parque das Dunas. A non-probability sampling technique was used to select respondents. The data collected were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to verify the relationships between constructs, based on the model of verification of behavioral intentions proposed by Chen and Tsai (2007). The results suggest that the quality of the site is the attribute that has the greatest impact in explaining support for the development of tourism in protected areas. It was also observed that the construct Value significantly interacts with the other study constructs, directly influencing residents’ support. Thus, as a contribution, this study strengthens the understanding of how resident support for tourism development is more likely to happen when socio-environmental value is perceived.