Self-transcendence: an alternative explanation for voluntourism in developing countries
Eddy Kurobuza Tukamushaba, Honggen Xiao, Adele Ladkin
International Journal of Sustainable Society 2017 DOI: 10.1504/ijssoc.2017.085723 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Descriptive survey Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 501 |
| Population | Visitors who had completed a visit to Uganda for various reasons |
| Citations | 7 |
| Key findings | The authors argue that self-transcendence serves as an alternative altruistic motivation for VOLUNtourists traveling to developing countries. Among 501 visitors to Uganda, gender was not significantly associated with purpose of visit, but age group was; most visitors sought experiences at a 'being' level. The authors recommend affordable accommodation for all age groups. |
Abstract
Travel associated with volunteering activities has been on increase and has attracted a cross section of people with varying demographic characteristics. This paper argues for self-transcendence as an alternative altruistic motivation for VOLUNtourists to travel to developing countries. A descriptive research design was used to guide the research process. A sample of 501 respondents who had completed their visit to Uganda for various reasons was used. Results indicate that, there was no significant association between gender and purpose of the visit, while age group was significantly associated with the purpose of visiting. Most visitors were seeking what was perceived to be at a being level. In Uganda most facilities within tourist attractions favour the adult age group and it is recommended that special consideration be put towards the development of affordable accommodation to cater for all age groups.