Abstract: Based on attachment theory to construct an integrated model including place attachment (place identity and place dependence) as independent variables, overall community satisfactions as a mediation variable, support for tourism as a dependent variable, dependence on tourism economy (yes/no) and tourism economy development (high/low) as two moderation variables. Data are obtained from a random sample of 254 residents of Miao and Dong traditional villages, Qiandongnan, Guizhou Province. The hypotheses are tested by the structural equation model. Results show that place identity and place dependence are positively related to community satisfaction; place identity, place dependence, and community satisfaction significantly influence tourism support; the partial mediating role of overall community satisfaction is examined; and moderating role of dependence on tourism economy (yes/no) and tourism economy development (high/low) were examined. By exploring the direct effect, indirect effect and boundary conditions, the mechanism of place attachment on residents’ support for tourism is demonstrated. The findings make theoretical and practical implications for tourist destination planning and management.

Key words: place attachment, support for tourism, attachment theory