SOCIO-CULTURAL IMPACTS OF TOURISM: THE CASE OF MARDIN

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the socio-cultural impacts of tourism activities on the local community in the destination of Mardin and to reveal the reflections of these impacts within the context of sustainable tourism. The research is grounded in theoretical approaches that explain the positive and negative effects of tourism on society, with particular emphasis on Doxey’s Irridex Model and Social Exchange Theory. A qualitative research design was adopted, and the study draws on secondary data sources, a comprehensive literature review, and the findings of previous empirical studies conducted in Mardin. The results indicate that tourism in Mardin increases local residents’ awareness of cultural heritage, contributes to economic vitality, and strengthens social interaction. However, it was also found that the growing intensity of tourist visitation brings socio-cultural risks such as cultural commodification, loss of authenticity, and the transformation of traditional living spaces. In conclusion, ensuring the socio-cultural sustainability of tourism in Mardin requires supporting the active participation of local residents in decision-making processes, considering carrying capacity, and adopting quality-oriented tourism policies rather than a focus on quantitative growth.