Development and Validation of a Specialization Index and Testing of Specialization Theory

Abstract

Abstract Recreation specialization can be viewed as a continuum of behavior from the general to the particular. Along this continuum, participants can be located into meaningful subgroups based on specific criteria. Previous studies have defined, measured, and segmented specialization groups in a variety of ways. The research reported here builds on the Ditton, Loomis, and Choi reconceptualization of recreation specialization. A specialization index was developed to segment anglers into four groups based on their orientation, experiences, relationships, and commitment. Internal validation analysis supported the use of this specialization index as a tool for angler segmentation. Subsequent hypotheses tested for differences among specialization groups in frequency of participation, importance of activity and nonactivity-specific elements, support for management regulations, and side-bets. Results provide strong support for the conceptual framework developed by Ditton et al. These findings indicate a multidimensional index can be used to segment anglers into discreet, meaningful specialization categories. Keywords: Recreation Specialization Segmentation Specialization Index Anglers