Evaluating user impacts and management controls: Implications for recreation choice behavior

Abstract

This paper describes potential factors affecting recreation choice behavior. Freedom and lack of constraints are experiences frequently sought by recreationists. Data in the paper are based on questionnaires completed by agency managers and informal conversations with users in the Mount Rainier area of Washington State. Managers' and users' perceptions of impacts such as vandalism, theft and littering, and social control practices are described for developed and semi-developed campgrounds. A framework illustrates the recursive nature of deviance and social control. Implications of impacts and regimentation practices for influencing choice of recreation settings are discussed.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings--symposium on recreation choice behavior

Citation

Christensen, Harriet H.; Davis, Nanette J. 1985. Evaluating user impacts and management controls: Implications for recreation choice behavior. In: Stankey, George H.; McCool, Stephen F., compilers. Proceedings--symposium on recreation choice behavior; 1984 March 22-23; Missoula, MT. General Technical Report INT-184. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. p. 71-78