Residents ’ Attitudes toward Tourism Development

—This study examined the relationship between socio-economic and demographic attributes of local residents and their attitudes toward tourism in Washington, NC, a small community where tourism is in its development stage. Residents’ attitudes toward tourism were measured by adapting 20 items from the Tourism Impact Attitude Scale developed by Lankford and Howard (1994). Factor analysis resulted in a 2factor solution. Findings indicate that age, gender, and community attachment do not have relationships with the two factors, but education is associated with one of the factors, and perceived personal benefi t has strong positive relationships with both factors. The study reinforced the need for further research on factors infl uencing residents’ attitudes toward tourism during a destination’s preliminary development stage. The fi ndings support previous assertions that educating local residents about the potential benefi ts of tourism is critical in obtaining their support for tourism, enhancing their involvement in the industry, and achieving sustainable community development.