http://www.loc.gov/mods/v3 http://www.loc.gov/standards/mods/v3/mods-3-2.xsd
an investigation of leisure behavior among inner city African American children
xv, 274 leaves : illustrations, map ; 28 cm.
This study was conducted to provide insight into the development of leisure preferences among African American children living in a socially isolated inner city neighborhood in Houston, Texas. Using the neighborhood effects model as a guiding theoretical framework, three social contexts (peer, family and neighborhood) steered the study. Forty-three children participated in in-depth interviews and photo journal projects. Four pathways were identified by which peers influence leisure behaviors. First, findings illustrated that friendship formation, and social interaction activities were important indicators of leisure participation. These friendship group formations enabled many children to participate in select activities based upon similar leisure interests, gender membership, and peer status. Secondly, leisure preferences were influenced by positive and negative peer group role modeling. Positive friendship relationships were depicted as providing support in academic enrichment, socialization and emotional situations. Conversely, non-supportive or negative role modeling was illustrated through deviant children's attempts to influence participation and to engage in illegal or deviant activities. Finally, leisure preferences were influenced by Third Ward children's attempts to gain status and peer recognition. In addition, family structures and parental monitoring and supervision strategies were found to influence the leisure behavior of African American children. Parental use of isolation and chaperonage strategies and the extended kin network were associated with availability of leisure opportunities. The social and physical aspects of the neighborhood were found to affect children's leisure. In general, the declining physical and social conditions of the neighborhood prohibited children from extensively using streets and parks for leisure. Despite these conditions, various neighborhood organizations were effective in providing important resources to support children's leisure in the Third Ward. These organizations however are challenged by the lack of affluence and the legitimization of deviant and illegal activity within the neighborhood. Overall, this study has illustrated the importance of race, class and place in the acquiring of leisure skills and knowledge. Using this research as a foundation, future research examining the role of normative culture in the development of leisure preferences could prove helpful in expanding our understanding of leisure in various cultures.
"Major Subject: Recreation and Resources Development".
Issued also on microfiche from University Microfilm Inc.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 249-266).
Major recreation and resources development