Influences Upon Leisure Behavior

LEISURE BEHAVIOR is influenced by several factors. First, demographic and socioeconomic variables must be considered. These would include such things as age, gender, place of residence, education, occupation, income, and race.

Second, activity related variables must be considered. These variables would include those listed below.

• Inflexibility - the number of people required, or special equipment needed in order to participate
• Rigidity - the time of day, or the season of the year when participation can occur; or the time block necessary for completion
• Skill level - the degree of specialization necessary for enjoyable participation

Third, an individual's immediate needs must be considered. Needs which may be met through leisure activities fall under these categories: (1) the need for something to do; (2) the need for social interaction with others; (3) the need for diversion; and (4) the need for fulfillment and/or satisfaction.

Lastly, an individual's personal interests must also be considered. Everyone does not like to do the same thing. Likes and dislikes are not identical among people. Every teenager does not enjoy playing basketball. All adults do not enjoy participating in a campout. Every senior citizen does not enjoy creating a flower vase in a ceramics class. Personal interests differ widely!

The best advice for leaders of organized recreation and leisure activities is to become aware of these factors and to plan programs accordingly!