BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AFFECTING ADOLESCENTS DECISIONS ON ENTERTAINMENT VENUE TOURISM IN MUEANG DISTRICT, CHONBOURI PROVINCE

Abstract

               This research aims to study 1) to study the entertainment tourism behavior and social support of adolescents in Mueang District, Chonburi Province. 2) to examine the level of decision-making regarding entertainment tourism among adolescents in Mueang District, Chonburi Province and 3) to compare the decision-making on entertainment tourism of adolescents in Mueang District, Chonburi Province, classified by demographic characteristics. The sample group consisted of 400 adolescents residing in Mueang District, Chonburi Province. The sampling was conducted using a multistage sampling method. First, cluster sampling was applied by dividing groups according to sub-districts located within Mueang District. Subsequently, simple random sampling was performed using a lottery draw, resulting in samples being selected from seven sub-districts: 1) Bang Plasroi, 2) Ban Suan, 3) Nong Mai Daeng, 4) Khlong Tamru, 5) Saen Suk, 6) Ang Sila, and 7) Makham Yong. A questionnaire was used as a research tool. The statistics used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Independent samples t test , F test, and one-way ANOVA. When differences were found, pairwise mean comparisons were conducted using the Scheffé method.
            The study found that adolescents in Mueang District, Chonburi Province engaged in entertainment tourism primarily with friends, followed by siblings and alone. The most frequent pattern of entertainment tourism was once a week, followed by 2–3 times per week, daily, and once a month. The majority spent more than three hours per visit, followed by 2–3 hours, and less than two hours. The most common expenditure per visit was 501–1,000 baht, followed by 500 baht or less, 1,001–5,000 baht, and over 5,001 baht.
            In terms of social support, adolescents reported receiving moderate overall support from family and friends, with a high level of support from friends and a moderate level from family. Regarding decision-making, entertainment tourism decisions were generally rated at a high level. The most influential factors included good service and complete facilities, followed by delicious food, enjoyable music, a friendly atmosphere, opportunities for self-expression, and the chance to meet favorite celebrities or artists.
            The results further showed that adolescents living in Ang Sila Sub-district had significantly higher levels of decision-making in entertainment tourism compared to those living in Khlong Tamru and Saen Suk Sub-districts. In addition, adolescents with an average monthly income of 10,000 baht or more, as well as those earning 5,001–10,000 baht, demonstrated significantly higher decision-making levels than those with incomes of 5,000 baht or less.