The Emotional Battle of the Sexes Game: Psychological Game Theory Applied to the Choice of Tourism
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose - Beach or mountain? This study focuses on the complex decision-making process travelers face when choosing a destination, highlighting the significant but understudied role of emotions in destination choice, particularly how emotional expectations influence tourism evaluation. The aim is to derive insights for a strategic choice of image positioning. Methodology, Design, and Approach - Using psychological game theory, the study examines the emotional responses of German tourists in their choice of tourism type on the Balearic Islands, through neuromarketing techniques (EEG, SCR, HVR) and a value assessment survey. This approach models tourists’ decision-making processes in response to visual stimuli, incorporating perceived value and an “emotional care” parameter that accounts for the desire to meet the expectations of travel companions. Results - The study reveals clear differences between equilibria based on purely self-reported value judgments and those incorporating neural responses, highlighting the complexity of emotional influences on travel decisions. Originality - This research contributes to the field of tourism by detailing the interplay between emotional expectations, consideration, and trade-offs in travel decisions. It provides insights for the development of tailored marketing strategies that address emotional needs in order to increase satisfaction in shared travel decisions.
DOI: 10.20867/thm.31.2.4
Institution: ESIC University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4406153631