A Cross-Cultural Study of the Influence of Perceived Positive Outcomes on Participation in Regular Active Recreation: Hong Kong and Australian University Students

This study examined the ways that perceptions of positive outcomes of engagement in regular active recreation influence engagement interest, engagement intentions and subsequent engagement in regular active recreation in the two contrasting cultures of Hong Kong and Australia. A total of 927 Hong Kong and 1,018 Australian university students completed survey questionnaires. Findings from the study indicated that having an interest in the activities was an important condition that led to enduring engagement in active recreation. Beliefs about physiological benefits of active recreation had no significant impact on young people's engagement interest, intention, and actual engagement. Perception of affective outcomes was an important motivator for Australian but not for Hong Kong students. Perceptions of psychological outcomes was an important predictor only for Hong Kong students. The findings suggested that cultural values and social, physical, and leisure environments could moderate the cognitive processes that underlie engagement in regular active recreation.

Keywords:

• active recreation
• benefits
• exercise
• leisure time physical activity
• participation
• perceived outcomes
• sport
• cross-cultural

Supported by the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Sports Medicine and Health Promotion, the Chinese University of Hong Kong.