Boolean Analysis of Factors Affecting Women’s Participation in Rural Tourism

Abstract

Women’s participation is a significant development priority in tourism, especially rural tourism. Despite their critical role in rural tourism, women face different constraints and limitations that prevent them from fully participating in local tourist activities. This study explores the most influential factors on women’s participation in rural tourism, using qualitative methods of inquiry (semi-structured interviews and observations) to collect data from 17 women who are active in rural tourism in the villages of Khorasan Razavi, Iran. Eight fundamental causes were identified and classified into macro- and micro-level factors that affect women’s participation in rural tourism, using the Boolean algebra analysis. The findings show socio-geographic proximity, a newly emerging theme, and patriarchal structure influence women’s participation at the macro-level. Similarly, self-confidence, family support, financial assistance, and the absence of role conflict at the micro-level are necessary and sufficient causes to influence women to participate and overcome challenging situations in rural tourism activities.