Extending the leisure substitutability concept

ABSTRACT

Leisure commitment has been studied for several decades now, but few attempts have been made to look at how leisurists benefit from participation in one activity when it comes to selecting another, but related, activity. The concept of leisure substitutability has been helpful in understanding what is entailed in switching activities, but does not address an important issue: how one leisure activity can potentially set up or introduce other leisure activities. The current work seeks to build on the leisure substitutability concept by showcasing the importance of past experience in making future leisure choices. The existence of a high level of participation in a leisure activity can create a space for the development of knowledge, skills or interests which may lead to a more fulfilling activity that better suits the individual’s life circumstances at that particular point in time, and may provide justification for abandonment or lessening of the former activity or affiliation.

KEYWORDS:

• Leisure
• substitutability
• music

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Justin Harmon is an assistant professor in the Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. His research interests include the use of music for identity maintenance, community formation and life course development. Additionally he studies how lifelong leisure associations are drawn on for coping and identity maintenance in people with cancer.

Kyle M. Woosnam is an associate professor in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia. His research interests include solidarity in tourist groups, residents in high-density tourism locations, and community members' and place attachment.

Notes

1 A fan who was an avid follower of the Grateful Dead.

2 The co-lead singer/guitarist for the Grateful Dead.