Recreation Density and User Satisfaction: A Further Exploration of the Satisfaction Model

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Abstract
Concern over the effect of increased visitor density on user satisfaction has been based on an assumed inverse relationship between these two variables. This relationship is examined first conceptually through review of pertinent social-psychological and recreation literature. From this review it is concluded that density has little effect on any social dysfunctions until density reaches a level where it is perceived as crowded, and that the level at which crowding is perceived is dependent upon activity, setting, and personal characteristics of participants. The relationship between density and satisfaction is then tested empirically using data from a broad spectrum of river recreationists in Vermont. A clear negative relationship is found when tested using a hypothetical convention, but when tested using actual field data, no relationship is found. A series of four hypotheses based on coping behavior and normative explanations of crowding are then explored in an effort to explain the study findings. Little support is found for the hypothesis involving the theory of cognitive dissonance, while preliminary support is found for the no expectations, product shift, and temporal displacement hypotheses. It is concluded that the density-satisfaction relationship is complex and should be incorporated cautiously into decisions establishing appropriate use density levels for outdoor recreation areas.