Understanding the Relationship between Race and Leisure Activities and Constraints: Exploring an Alternative Framework

Abstract

This study addresses the continuing relevance of race as a persistent societal issue in the U.S., and tackles criticism (Floyd, 1998; Henderson & Ainsworth, 2001; Philipp, 1995) regarding the lack of models to guide research that links race and leisure constraints. Shaw's (1994) framework for analyzing women's leisure is explored as a potential vehicle for understanding racial variation in leisure constraints. More specifically, leisure constraints and preferences of African-Americans and Caucasians were examined, and some of the findings challenge the results of previous studies by suggesting African-Americans are not as constrained as are Caucasians. Our findings do, however, support previous research that indicates the two racial groups have distinct leisure preferences. Several explanations for the findings are discussed, particularly the concept of resistance as introduced by Shaw (1994).

Keywords:

• constraints
• leisure models
• race
• racial variations
• resistance

Notes

∗∗∗p < .001.

∗p < .05

∗∗<.01

∗∗∗p < .001. Note. Means are based on the question, “How much does each of the following factors limit your use of community or neighborhood parks?” Response options ranged from 1 (“not at all”) to 5 (“a lot”). Analyses controlled for the effects of income, education, and employment status.

∗p < .05

∗∗<.01

∗∗∗p < .001. Note. Means are based on the question, “What are some of the reasons you don't spend more time doing that activity? How much do each of these factors limit your participation?” Response options ranged from 1 (“not at all”) to 5 (“a lot”). Analyses controlled for the effects of income, education, and employment status.

∗p < .05

∗∗<.01

∗∗∗p < .001. Note. Means are based on the question, “How much do you like to …” Response options ranged from 1 (“not at all”) to 5 (“a lot”). Analyses controlled for the effects of income, education, and employment status.