Understanding the Role of Identity in the Constraint Negotiation Process

Abstract

Sociological theory related to identity was adapted to explore the influence of identity on respondents’ perceived leisure constraints and constraint negotiation. We hypothesized that perceived constraints to recreational golf and efforts to negotiate constraints would be predicted by the degree to which respondents embraced their leisure-related identity of “golfer.” It was also hypothesized that the perception of constraints and constraint negotiation would depend upon the degree to which respondents perceive that the identities they embrace facilitate or conflict. Findings showed support for the hypothesized model.

Keywords:

• constraint negotiation
• identity
• identity conflict/facilitation
• leisure constraints

Acknowledgments

We would like to extend our gratitude to Drs. David Scott and Jane Sell of Texas A&M University and Dr. Clifton Watts of East Carolina University for their assistance in earlier stages of this research.