Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Individual
(one dimensional)
Triangular family group:
gender, generation and
group dynamics
(three dimensional -
mothers, fathers, children)
Family
tourism
experiences
Dyadic partnership:
gendered approach
(two dimensional)
Figure 1.1
Conceptual triangular framework of the three dimensions of family tourism
experiences
a multigenerational approach, although the focus here is on nuclear
families. Single parents and gay/lesbian families would require a more
complex framework that could go beyond triangulation. Richardson and
St Pierre (2005) suggested the crystal as a central image for such a concep-
tualisation because it offers a large variety of shapes and many angles of
approach. Crystals can grow and change just like modern family forms. The
important recognition here is that family groups entail social realities that
cannot be captured by conventional one-dimensional or two-dimensional
perspectives and theorisations in tourism. Instead a three-dimensional or
familial perspective is needed that allows for group dynamics and genera-
tional considerations alongside potential gendered approaches. While this
conceptualisation has been applied in only some of the present chapters, it
highlights the need for a reappraisal of families in tourism research that is
inclusive of the sociality and multidimensionality of family groups.
