Development and Validation of a Multidimensional Responsible Tourist Behavior Scale

ABSTRACT Responsible tourist behavior is not only crucial for cultural and natural resource preservation but also for mitigating negative consequences for the host destination. This research develops and validates a multidimensional scale that incorporates social, cultural, and ethical factors as well as environmentally responsible behavior. The scale development underwent several stages, including item generation, interviews, scale refinement, and validity testing. Data were collected from tourists who exhibited responsible behavior while traveling. Development of this scale contributes to advancing the understanding and evaluation of responsible tourism behavior. The insights gained from this study can benefit all concerned parties, including tourists, local communities, and the environment.