Serious leisure: the sport of target shooting and leisure satisfaction

Douglas W. Murray, David Martin, Martin O’Neill, T. Jason Gouge

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Abstract: This study is designed to identify the underlying satisfaction dimensions gained through engagement in target shooting as a serious leisure pastime. The instrument design was based on the Leisure Satisfaction Scale. A total of 5502 useable surveys were collected through the Internet and a website related to target shooting and gun ownership. The results revealed eight dimensions: self-actualization, social interaction, location aesthetic, respite, physical benefit, connection and hedonic pleasure, which supplied the primary satisfiers of engaging in target shooting as a serious leisure activity. The demographic profile and dimensions of satisfaction may serve to dispel commonly held stereotypes of shooting hobbyists and those involved in gun ownership. The findings have important implications for leisure researchers and practitioners, to industry, both leisure and firearm related, and the target shooting community at large. This study adds to the literature of both target shooting and serious leisure.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)891-905
Number of pages15
JournalSport in Society
Volume19
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - 8 Aug 2016

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