Personality traits and environmental identity in participating in trekking : the flow theory

This research aims to investigate the effect of five-factor personality traits and environmental identity on the flow experience of levels of individuals participating in trekking activities, a form of special-interest tourism. The research model was built on flow theory. The relationship among the related variables was tested using Smart PLS. The research universe consists of individuals (n=384) who participated in trekking activities with outdoor sports clubs in Eskişehir Province. The study found that while five-factor personality traits-extraversion, agreeableness, openness, and neuroticism-positively affect environmental identity, the personality trait of conscientiousness has no significant effect on environmental identity. Individuals with the personality traits of openness and neuroticism were also found to have experienced flow, while extraversion, conscientiousness, and agreeableness did not have any significant effect on the flow experience. Finally, environmental identity positively influenced the flow experience. Based on the research findings, original recommendations have been developed for enterprises organising trekking activities within the tourism sector.