The causal effects of parental support on internship satisfaction and industry commitment of Thai students in tourism bachelor program in Phuket province

Abstract

This study examines the causal effects of parental support on internship satisfaction and industry commitment among Thai students enrolled in a tourism bachelor program in Phuket Province. The research aims to explore how parental support, as an independent variable, directly influences key outcomes related to internships, including person-organization fit, internship quality, internship satisfaction, and commitment to the tourism industry. Additionally, the study observes the moderating role of abusive supervision focusing on how negative supervisory behavior can influence the positive effects of parental support on various outcomes. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected through questionnaires distributed to tourism students currently completing internships in Phuket Province. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is utilized for data analysis with a sample consisting of 300 Thai tourism students who have completed an internship. The research consists of 3 objectives: (1) to investigate the perception of Thai students in tourism bachelor program in Phuket Province regarding parental support during their internship, (2) to examine the influence of parental support, the moderating role of abusive supervision, and the mediating effects of person-organization fit and internship quality, and (3) to develop a structural model illustrating the relationships among parental support, internship satisfaction, and industry commitment under the moderating role of abusive supervision, which weakens the positive impact of parental support on internship experiences. The findings indicate that parental support parental support significantly enhances both internship satisfaction and industry commitment, with person-organization fit and internship quality playing mediating roles. Interestingly, this positive impact remains unaffected despite the presence of abusive supervision. This research highlights the critical role of family involvement in student internships while identifying the negative impact of poor supervisory practices on internship experiences. The findings emphasize the importance of creating supportive environments both at home and in the workplace to strengthen students’ industry commitment and long-term career engagement in tourism. Furthermore, this study contributes to academic literature and industry practices by offering valuable insights into the role of parental support in students’ professional development. The results have practical implications for universities, tourism businesses, and policymakers, underscoring the need for stronger support mechanisms to enhance students’ internship experiences and encourage sustained commitment to the industry.