LAUSR

ABSTRACT This study, based on a multi-stakeholder perspective, explores the formation mechanisms and driving factors of cultural distortion in heritage sites. Employing an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach that combines semi-structured interviews with quantitative analysis, the research systematically examines the formation processes and intrinsic relationships among cultural ontological distortion, representational distortion, and constructive distortion. The results reveal that different dimensions of cultural distortion are driven by distinct factors. Natural factors, destination cultural embedding, and rapid tourism development significantly contribute to cultural ontological distortion, leading to the generation, modification, or deviation of cultural heritage content from its original context. Economic interests and policy inadequacies accelerate the separation and misalignment of cultural representations. Social responsibility deficits and a lack of long-term strategic planning play critical roles in cultural constructive distortion, while changes in market conditions and technological modernization exert more complex effects. Cultural ontology distortion and representation distortion are key precursors to construction distortion, with logical interconnections among the three dimensions. This study not only enhances the theoretical framework of cultural distortion in heritage sites and provides a fresh perspective for cultural preservation and sustainable development but also offers practical guidance for stakeholders in formulating strategies for cultural heritage protection and management.