Disconfirmation theory argues that ‘satisfaction is related to the size and
direction of the disconfirmation experience that occurs as a result of comparing
service performance against expectations’.42 Szymanski and Henard found in the
meta-analysis that the disconfirmation paradigm is the best predictor of customer
satisfaction.43 Ekinci et al (2004) cites Oliver’s updated definition on the
disconfirmation theory, which states “Satisfaction is the guest’s fulfilment response.
It is a judgement that a product or service feature, or the product or service itself,
provided (or is providing) a pleasurable level of consumption-related fulfilment,
including levels of under- or over-fulfilment”