The so-called “expectancy-disconfirmation theory” has been the dominant model for assessing satisfaction (Brookes, 1995; Liljander and Strandvik, 1997). According to this model, the cognitive confirmation (or disconfirmation) of expected service determines satisfaction (Danaher and Haddrell, 1996). Yi-Ting and Dean (2001) argue that a focus
on the cognitive component of satisfaction and a relative neglect of the emotional component can lead to an inadequate understanding of the construct of satisfaction. In this regard, Cronin (2003) position emotion as a core attribute in satisfaction and suggest that models of satisfaction should include a separate emotional component.
Wirtz and Bateson (1999) also contend that a separation of the cognitive and emotional components is both necessary and valuable for modeling behavior in service settings. In this study, the emotional component of satisfaction is labeled as emotional satisfaction.