Recreation specialization : A review of literature and methodology

The concept of "recreation specialization" is a developmental process which occurs as a result of participation in a particular leisure activity. Bryan (1977) defines recreation specialization as a "continuum of behavior from the general to the particular, reflected by equipment and skills used in the sport and activity setting preferences". This conceptual framework has been considered as an effective explanatory variable to differentiate outdoor recreationists. The purpose of this study is to review the literature related to receation specialization and examine the kinds of methods used in leisure research. Literature pertinent to recreation specialization is classified into theoretical development and application. Methodological issues are discussed based upon an overview of this specialization research. This paper is organized into five topics: 1)theoretical background, 2)related concepts, 3)theoretical development, 4)empirical studies, and 5)methodology.