Investigating the role of social networks in the development of sports tourism in Tehran

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of social networks in the development of sports tourism in Tehran. The method of the present study was descriptive survey that was conducted in the field. The statistical population of this study was experts in sports, tourism and sports media. The sampling method of the present study was available and 250 questionnaires were analyzed. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire whose validity was confirmed by 12 experts in sports management, tourism and media and its reliability was 0.86. Data were analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, one-sample t-test and Friedman rank test using SPSS software version 26. The results showed that social networks, by creating demand for sports services and goods and creating attractiveness for communities, provide the necessary ground for development in the development of sports tourism; Therefore, the use of social networks can play a positive role in the mental image of tourists in Tehran.