Racetrack Buddy Relations: Compartmentalized and Satisfying

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Abstract
Although friendship is a topic of universal interest, social scientists have not precisely defined this concept. Traditional definitions have emphasized the all-encompassing, generalized, and personalisitic quality of the relationship. On the other hand, current research has suggested that modern relationships are often compartmentalized and confined to the situational. My investigation builds upon the latter research. Using qualitative data drawn from a two-year study of the social world of off-track horse race gamblers, I delineate the buddy relationships that have developed among the participants. Within this distinct social world, the gamblers share contingencies and communication channels that set them apart from non-horseplayers. Despite being specialized and contextual, racetrack buddyship is a relationship that is meaningful, enduring, and satisfying to the interactants.