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Spatial behavior in recreational boating
a disaggregate analysis of factors influencing lake-use
Traditionally, recreation researchers have sought to understand the spatial patterns of recreational travel through the construction of macro-theoretical models of park visitation. Relatively few studies exist of the application of these models to the spatial behavior of individuals. This dissertation addressed this problem through analysis of the lake-use patterns of recreational boaters. The research objective was to test the main and interactive effects of lake attraction, lake accessibility and boater type on lake-use. The theoretical perspective of this research was derived from economic utility theory, Stouffer's theory of intervening opportunities and the cognitive-behavioral literature. Two theoretical postulates were tested. First, it was postulated that an individual's selection and use of a specific recreational lake is the result of a trade-off between relative lake attractiveness and relative lake accessibility. The study results supported this postulate. Lake-use was inversely related to both the number of more accessible lakes and the number of more attractive lakes. The second postulate was concerned with the relationship between the characteristics of the individual recreationist and spatial behavior. It was postulated that: (1) significant differences would exist between boater types relative to both their images of recreational lakes and their preferences, (2) significant differences would exist in spatial behavior between boater types and (3) these differences in spatial behavior would be a function of the differences in lake attractiveness and lake accessibility. The evidence did not completely support this postulate. Even when controlling for lake attractiveness and lake accessibility, significant differences in lake-use were observed between the boater types. Further analysis of the boater types focused on their interaction with relative lake attractiveness and relative lake accessibility. Overall, the results indicated that fishermen were more sensitive to differences in lake attractiveness in their lake selection processes. Non-fishermen were more sensitive to differences in lake accessibility. It was concluded that continued micro-theoretical research is needed of spatial behavior in outdoor recreation. The results support the need for a descriptive understanding of spatial behavior in outdoor recreation.
"Major subject: Recreation and Resources Development.
Ph. D. in Philosophy Texas A & M University 1981
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 174-186).