The relationship between the risk perceptions, destination attachment and behavioral intentions of tourists in the framework of attachment theory

Tourism is one of the leading industries with a significant role in the global economy. It holds great importance in terms of economic development and cultural exchange, and understanding the factors that influence tourists' travel decisions plays a critical role in ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of a destination. As a multidimensional industry shaped by various psychological and behavioral factors, tourism necessitates efforts to understand these dynamics for both destination management and the advancement of tourism scholarship. The concept of destination attachment, which refers to the emotional and psychological bond tourists develop with a destination, is associated with attachment theory. While tourism researchers have explored relationships involving destination attachment and similar constructs, attachment styles have not been sufficiently examined in this context. Not every tourist establishes the same kind of bond with a destination, and the tourism industry must strive to understand the underlying processes that influence these relationships in order to take appropriate action. This study aims to examine tourists' risk perception, destination attachment, and behavioral intentions within the framework of attachment theory. A quantitative research method was adopted, and data were collected via questionnaires from individuals aged 18 and above who had previously visited Antalya for tourism purposes between June and August 2024. Analyses were conducted using the SPSS program, employing exploratory factor analysis, reliability analysis, correlation, and regression techniques. The findings revealed that individuals with secure attachment styles exhibited lower levels of risk perception, and higher levels of destination attachment and behavioral intention. It was found that risk perception negatively affects behavioral intention, while destination attachment has a positive effect on behavioral intention. The results of the study offer theoretical and practical contributions to better understanding tourist behavior and developing effective destination marketing strategies.