Patterns of host territoriality and implications for P2P accommodation guest experience

Abstract

Peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation hosts exhibit diverse territorial behaviors in their interactions with guests. Combinations of these behaviors can distinctly affect guest experience. Using latent profile analysis, this paper identified subpopulations of P2P accommodation guests who share common perceptions of host territoriality. Results from three studies consistently revealed a trio of host territoriality patterns: low-territorial, access-limiting, and intrusive, which were differentially associated with guest experiences, including host evaluation, satisfaction, and revisit intention. Guests who experienced the access-limiting or intrusive pattern reported significantly less favorable attitudes toward their hosts and overall experiences, compared with those who experienced the low-territorial pattern. Psychological ownership and perceived control were found to mediate the influence of host territoriality patterns on guest experience. The findings of this research provide robust insight into the heterogeneity of host territoriality and shed light on service provision in P2P accommodation.