Since the 1930s, several studies have been conducted on speaker identification. However, disagreements sometimes arise among studies regarding the same factors. This conflict occurs because of differences in the presentation and response procedures of the test stimuli which are carried out during the identification test phase and the resulting similarity between the target and distractor person’s speech, which may affect the speaker identification performance. However, standardization based on a single test method is a complicated process. The answer method used in previous studies has a drawback in that distinguishing between choosing one option with a clear conviction and choosing one after struggling with other options remains challenging. In this study, we introduced a new test method that allows us to examine the cognitive process of the speaker identification phenomenon while maintaining the reproducibility of the previously reported method.

In recent years, as the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, a research topic that has rapidly gained attention overseas is the transformative travel experience. The transformative travel experience has been recognized as a process in which events that occur during travel serve as a catalyst for positive changes in one’s self-perception, attitudes, behavior patterns, and ways of engaging with the world. In this article, we review the recent research trends in transformative travel experiences with the aim of contributing to the development of this field in Japan. First, our study attempts to clarify the ambiguous aspects found in previous studies regarding the definition of transformative travel experiences and their distinctions from similar concepts. Additionally, we organized the previous findings regarding the mechanisms and effects of transformative travel experiences and also discuss some open issues and directions for further research. Travel is a significant leisure activity and a major industry with a substantial economic impact, while it is also an activity that nurtures the human spirit. Empirical research on transformative travel experiences and travel is expected to advance the industry and improve people’s quality of life in the future.