A Qualitative Investigation of the Urban African-American and Latino Adolescent Experience with Wildlife∗

∗Our research protocol was approved by the University of Missouri–Columbia's Institutional Review Board (proposal #1034545).

Abstract

Few studies have investigated the wildlife-related experience of urban African-American and Latino adolescents. Using a grounded theory research approach, we identified four general conditions (i.e., demographic characteristics, socialization, place of residence, wildlife encounters) that were important in shaping four general processes (i.e., connecting with wildlife, selective engagement with wildlife, tolerating wildlife, wildlife disconnect) that describe the differing wildlife experiences of these adolescents. Our findings suggested that urban African-American and Latino adolescents will demonstrate differing levels of interest and appreciation for wildlife, ranging from active interest and engagement to a complete disinterest in wildlife. To foster an appreciation for wildlife in urban African-American and Latino adolescents, three general conditions should be present: (a) childhood access to wild places, (b) supportive mentoring from adults, and (c) positive encounters with a variety of wildlife species.

Keywords:

• African American
• Latino
• wildlife
• adolescent
• urban

Notes

∗Our research protocol was approved by the University of Missouri–Columbia's Institutional Review Board (proposal #1034545).

QSR NUD∗IST Software. (2002). Doncaster Victoria Australia: QSR International