SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY OF TOURISM
Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: TIZIANA RAMACIExpected Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be able to: (DD1): know and understand the main constructs of social psychology applied to tourism, including cognitive, relational, and motivational processes. (DD2): apply this knowledge to the design and communication of the tourism offer and to the management of relational dynamics within the tourism context. (DD3): critically evaluate the psychological factors that influence tourism demand and the behavior of tourism operators. (DD4): effectively communicate psychological issues related to tourism, adapting language and tools to professional contexts. (DD5): develop autonomy in studying and keeping up to date on psychological issues related to tourism, also through the use of updated scientific sources.
Course Structure
Lectures supported by multimedia presentations and guided discussions on case studies and scientific articles. Active student participation will be encouraged to foster critical thinking and the practical application of course content.
Required Prerequisites
None. The course will provide the knowledge necessary to approach the topics addressed.
Attendance of Lessons
Attendance is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended to promote a deeper understanding of the content, encourage active participation in teaching activities, and achieve better overall learning outcomes.
Detailed Course Content
Social cognition; Social judgment; Social representations; Social relationships; Intergroup interaction; Motivation in tourist choices; Sustainable tourism; Tourism and family; Occupational stress in tourism operators.
The course is consistent with the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda: The knowledge acquired will enable students to analyze and develop responsible approaches to tourism, in line with Goals 3, 8, and 12 of the 2030 Agenda.
Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-beingGoal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Social cognition; Social judgment; Social representations; Social relationships; Intergroup interaction | Text no. 1 |
| 2 | Motivation in tourist choices | Text no. 2 |
| 3 | Sustainable tourism | Text no. 3 |
| 4 | Tourism and family | Text no. 4 |
| 5 | Occupational stress | Text no. 5 |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
Assessment will be carried out through an oral examination.
Evaluation will be based on the student’s ability to understand, elaborate, and apply the course content.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
1. What are social representations?
2. What are attitudes?
3. What is motivation in tourist choices?
4. What is occupational stress?