The influence of socio-demographic indicators economic determinants and social recognition on sport participation in Germany

Abstract

This article analyses sport participation using a demographic-economic model which was extended by the construct ‘social recognition’. Social recognition was integrated into the model on the understanding that it is the purpose of each individual to maximise his or her utility. A computer-assisted telephone interview survey was conducted in the city of Rheinberg, Germany, producing an overall sample of n=1934. Regression analyses were performed to estimate the impact of socio-demographic, economic determinants, and social recognition on sport participation. The results suggest that various socio-economic factors and social recognition are important determinants of sport participation on the one hand, and on sport frequency on the other. Social recognition plays a significant yet different role for both sport participation and sport frequency. While friends’ involvement with sport influences one's sport participation, parents’ involvement with sport influences one's sport frequency.

Keywords:

• Physical activity
• leisure economics
• social interactions

Notes

1. For the purpose of this article, ‘sport’ and ‘physical activity’ are used as synonyms. This notion implies a broad understanding of sport participation including activities such as leisurely cycling or going for a walk.