Women’s self-determination in cooperative tourism microenterprises
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Chantell LaPan, Assistant Professor (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to better understand how cooperative forms of microentrepreneurship influence women's self-determination. Utilizing the framework of self-determination theory, this study employed a multiple case study approach that involved in-depth interviews, content analysis, field notes, and direct observations. Findings indicate that livelihood opportunities afforded under cooperative tourism microentrepreneurship offer women increased levels of self-determination, but that economic improvements alone are not sufficient in enhancing overall well-being. This study provides a detailed account of the strategies indigenous women employ to enhance their self-determination under cooperative tourism microentrepreneurship models. The results of this study suggest that programs by governments and NGOs should consider non-individual benefits when they engage with communities in tourism planning initiatives. Additionally, interventions aimed at women must also engage men or women may suffer from tensions at home. Finally, this study indicates that simply offering access to credit does not foster self-reliant development. The structures of cooperative models determine outcomes. Therefore, whenever possible, microentrepreneurship models should be designed to enhance strong cooperative social structures.
Women’s self-determination in cooperative tourism microenterprises
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Created on 6/24/2022
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Tourism Review International, 20(1), 41–55. https://doi.org/10.3727/154427216X14581596799022
- Language: English
- Date: 2016
- Keywords
- tourism, microentrepreneurship, gender, Guatemala, Maya, poverty