Recreation Specialization in the Social World of Contract Bridge

The recreation specialization concept is finding increased use among leisure researchers. To date, it's application has been limited to studies of outdoor recreationists, including anglers (Bryan, 1977; Graefe, 1980; Ditton, Loomis, & Choi, 1992) boaters (Donnelly, Vaske, & Graefe, 1986), canoeists (Wellman, Roggenbuck, & Smith, 1982; Kaufman, 1984), hikers (Williams, & Huffman, 1986; Virden & Schreyer, 1988), and vehicle-based campers (McIntyre & Pigram, 1992). The purpose of this study was to investigate the nature of recreation specialization in an activity that is far removed from outdoor environments, namely contract bridge. This study focuses on the meaning of participation among bridge players and how these meanings are reflected in distinct styles of involvement. Data are drawn from a yearlong investigation of contract bridge players and groups.