ABSTRACT
While sociology can greatly aid our understanding of the forces in society that shape tourism and its significance, psychology can also enhance our understanding of tourism as a form of individual behaviour. Commenting on the meaning of psychology Davidoff (1987: 6) states: ‘The word “psychology” is derived from the Greek word meaning “study of the mind or soul”.’ while Malim and Birch (1998: 3) comment that: ‘Perhaps the most widely accepted definition of psychology is that of the scientific study of behaviour and experience.’ Thus it can be said that psychology is a social science that focuses on behaviour and mental processes, attempting to provide a comprehension and understanding of human (and animal) behaviour. Yet, beneath this aim lies a myriad of complexity of terms and theories to help psychologists achieve this ultimate goal.
