Integrating the theory of planned behavior with internal environmental locus of control factors to predict pro-environmental behavioral intention in Vietnamese national parks

Abstract

Vietnamese national parks are ecologically sensitive areas facing increasing environmental pressures due to rising tourism activities. These parks, rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, are vulnerable to habitat degradation, waste accumulation, and overuse of resources. Promoting pro-environmental behavioral intentions (PEBI) among visitors is crucial for ensuring sustainable tourism and conservation. While the theory of planned behavior (TPB) has been widely used to explain environmental actions, it often overlooks internal motivational factors such as personal responsibility and control beliefs. This study addresses this gap by integrating TPB with internal environmental locus of control (IELOC) factors to understand better the psychological drivers of PEBI in the Vietnamese national park context. An online survey was conducted with 360 Vietnamese participants, and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. The results revealed that while a green consumer identity did not significantly influence environmental attitudes, other IELOC dimensions, including activism, advocacy, and recycling, had a positive impact on attitudes toward the environment. TPB constructs, including subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, significantly influenced attitudes and behavioral intentions. Attitude toward the environment also mediated several relationships between IELOC and TPB constructs and PEBI. These findings contribute to the literature by highlighting the importance of internal control beliefs and social influences in shaping sustainable behaviors in national park settings. Practical implications include targeted interventions to foster environmental stewardship among park visitors.