Validation of crowding norms assessment tool for determination recreational carrying capacity in mountain tourist attractions

Abstract

          Crowding norms are central to determining the psychological carrying capacity of tourist attractions. This study aims to validate the research tool for formulating psychological carrying capacity in mountain tourist attractions. This is part of the project to study the carrying capacity of tourist attractions in mountains, caves, and related areas. The sample consisted of 180 Thai tourists who visited Khao Phanoen Thung Viewpoint. The research tool is a questionnaire that has been verified for content validity. The results showed that the scale measurements were reliable within acceptable criteria. The data obtained can be used to analyze crowding norm curves to indicate the acceptable maximum number of people. This study was useful for the development of a crowding norm assessment tool and as a precedent for evaluating other natural attractions in this research project.