Revisiting the cognitive–affective–conative model: a meta-analytic structural equation modelling approach to destination image, satisfaction, and tourist loyalty

This study examines the relationships among cognitive, affective, and conative components of destination image, satisfaction, and loyalty through meta-analysis and meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM). Drawing on 37 effect-size records extracted from 34 empirical studies (cumulative N = 17,038 participants), the analysis identifies consistent sequential associations: cognitive image significantly predicts affective (β = 0.46) and conative image (β = 0.48), while affective image is associated with conative image (β = 0.25). Both cognitive and conative components are directly associated with satisfaction and loyalty, with satisfaction partially mediating these relationships. The final model demonstrated acceptable fit (CFI = 0.991, TLI = 0.956, RMSEA = 0.089, SRMR = 0.029), supporting model adequacy across the included studies. Theoretically, the findings refine the CAC framework, revealing multiple pathways linking perceptions, emotions, and behavioral outcomes. Practically, they highlight the strategic importance of aligning cognitive evaluations, emotional engagement, and service quality to foster loyalty. These insights support more targeted and sustainable destination marketing strategies. For foundational treatments of destination image conceptualisation and measurement, see Crompton (1979), Echtner and Ritchie (1991, 1993), Gartner (1994), Baloglu and McCleary (1999), Bigné, Sánchez, and Sánchez (2001), and Beerli and Martín (2004).