An Exploration of Recreational Participation Patterns in a Correctional Facility: A Case Study.

Abstract This study was conducted to explore recreation participation patterns in an institution providing a primarily diversional correctional recreation program. A secondary purpose was to explore changes in recreation participation before and during incarceration, and anticipated change following incarceration. Subjects included 165 males in a maximum/medium custody facility. Data were collected through a questionnaire on participation in the institution's recreation opportunities. Passive activities were most common, and younger inmates were most active in all aspects of the total program. Support for the need to implement leisure education and/or leisure counseling in correctional settings was provided. Additionally, areas of needed research in correctional recreation were identified.