The Effect of Recreation Goals on Conflict Perception: The Case of Water Skiers and Fishermen

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Abstract
An empirical test of a “goal interference” theory of outdoor recreation conflict is reported. According to the theory, when the behavior of one group of recreationists is incompatible with the social, psychological, or physical goals of another group, a state of goal interference will occur. This will result in conflict perception. Weak support for the model was found in an analysis of conflict between water skiers and fishermen at a midwestern reservoir. Variations in conflict perception among fishermen were somewhat related to variations in recreation goals in a manner predicted by the goal theory. Fishermen who placed greater emphasis on tension release, various forms of escape, and nature enjoyment were more likely to define high-speed boating as “reckless.” Since support for the theory tested was modest, alternative theoretical explanations for recreation conflict are discussed, as is the relevance of conflict studies to recreation management and leisure theory.