Understanding racial and ethnic differences in angler behavior /

Understanding differences in the recreational fishing behavior of African-American, Mexican-American, and Anglo male anglers in Texas was the primary goal of this dissertation. Hypotheses about variant behavior in recreational fishing were generated from documented variations in the cultural patter...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Hunt, Kevin Michael, 1966-
Format: Thesis Book
Language:English
Published: [Place of publication not identified] : [publisher not identified] ; 2000.
Subjects:
Online Access:http://proxy.library.tamu.edu/login?url=http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=727852951&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=2945&RQT=309&VName=PQD
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Summary:Understanding differences in the recreational fishing behavior of African-American, Mexican-American, and Anglo male anglers in Texas was the primary goal of this dissertation. Hypotheses about variant behavior in recreational fishing were generated from documented variations in the cultural patterns of these groups as well as alternative theories of outdoor recreation behavior. Data from four Texas statewide angler surveys were used to test the viability of hypotheses. Twelve measures of participation, four constructs related to the perceived benefits received from fishing, and four constructs related to orientations towards catching and keeping fish were identified as possibly being subject to racial and ethnic differentiation. Traditional parametric and non-parametric procedures were employed for the study of participation patterns, and meta-analysis techniques were used for exploring differences in constructs related to perceived benefits received from fishing and orientations toward catching and keeping fish. Results indicated significant differences among racial/ethnic groups in the anticipated direction on 10 participation variables. Anglo males were more likely than all other racial and gender groups to participate in licensed recreational fishing, and were more likely than African-American or Mexican-American males to have started fishing at an earlier age, have more years of fishing experience, own a powerboat, fish more days from a boat, belong to fishing organizations, fish in tournaments, and have less varied species preferences. Second, samples of Mexican-American and Anglo males matched on income, residence location, and age differed significantly on perceived benefit constructs related to escaping individual stressors, being in a natural environment and achievement. Matched samples of African-American and Anglo males differed significantly on perceived benefit constructs related to being in a natural environment, achievement, and interacting with nature. Further, African-American males were found to be more oriented to catching many fish, catching large/challenging fish and keeping the fish they catch. Since differences persisted despite controls for competing explanations, support was found for the thesis that behavior in recreational fishing is culturally influenced. Differences and similarities in all measures and management implications were discussed in light of theory. Future research needs were identified.
Item Description:Vita.
"Major Subject: Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences".
Physical Description:x, 152 leaves ; 28 cm.
Issued also on microfiche from University Microfilm Inc.
Bibliography:Includes bibliographical references (leaves 124-136).