ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the recreationist who wishes to embark on behavioral investigations in recreation by providing him with a most effective conceptual framework for his studies. It presents a conceptual framework within which the conventional activity approach to recreation planning is supplemented by a behavioral interpretation of recreation. There are analytical and conceptual advantages in viewing recreation behaviorally. Psychologists define behavior as any observable action of a person or thing. It was stated that the recreational planner has impact on recreational experiences through his influence on the provision of opportunities to pursue recreational goal objects. Recreation planners must question their role in resolving any social problems being created by increasing “structured” leisure time. Recreation planners have much to learn about the facilitating and constraining effects of uses and psychological perceptions of time on recreational behavior and about the effects of the behavior on general welfare.
