An exploratory study of the outdoor recreation participation of families who have a child under sixteen

Abstract

Family recreation has been recognized as an effective way to nurture family customs and promote healthy youth development. In particular, outdoor-based recreation that includes inherent challenges often offers opportunities for a family to grow together and promotes family cohesion and youth development. Building on earlier research, this study attempts to further explore factors associated with motivation for participating in outdoor family recreation. A series of research questions was developed and analyzed with empirical data. The results indicated that travelers who have at least one child under 16 years of age were significantly different in their motivations and preferences from those who travel without youth.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium

Citation

Du Lee, Bob; Graefe, Alan; Burns, Robert. 2007. An exploratory study of the outdoor recreation participation of families who have a child under sixteen. In: Burns, R.; Robinson, K., comps. Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium; 2006 April 9-11; Bolton Landing, NY. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-14. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 335-341.