The impact of traveling on mood and well-being

Abstract

This research project investigated the phenomenon of tourism, in order to discover some of the impact that tourism might have on vacationers. The study will be based on a mixed method design, both quantitative and qualitative data-gathering methods. Two recognized inventory instruments will be used, the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI II). The study was designed as a pre-trip/post-trip design in the weeks before and after Easter 2010. The participants in the project were employees at the University of Stavanger, Norway. The quantitative data were gathered from 79 respondents before they went on holiday and 24 respondents after their return. The qualitative data were collected from 12 respondents before they went on vacation and eleven respondents after their vacation experience. After analyzing the data it seemed that the research hypothesis was strengthened. The research hypothesis was strengthened. The majority of the survey respondents who did go on holiday reported after their vacation that they were able to relax during their holiday and that they recharged batteries due to their vacation. Furthermore, the BDI II results indicate a decrease in self-reported negative feelings. The pre and post-trip interviews point to that the respondents experienced not only a boost of anticipation in their pre-trip phase but also a boost of energy. Besides, the interview respondents reported benefits of traveling such as relaxation.