Thriving children on vacation: using positive psychology to understand the benefits of family vacations

Parents want their children to be happy and thrive (i.e., have a high level of well-being across various domains). Vacations can be among the happiest and most memorable childhood experiences, contributing to long-term well-being and overall thriving. Vacations are often rich sources of factors, such as new connections and experiences, that can help children and families thrive. However, these factors have been under-researched in the tourism literature. During vacations, expanded emotions, relationships, play, novelty, and challenging experiences can all offer children and families benefits. This chapter draws on theories and research from non-tourism areas (e.g., developmental sciences, positive psychology) with an emphasis on psychological needs, emotions, relationships, and cognitive aspects that can provide theoretical clarity. We suggest areas for future research on how vacations and the tourism industry can promote thriving in children.