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Perceptions of high risk sports
1Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|November 5, 1997
Summary
High-risk sports appeal is linked to perceived risk and enjoyment. People are more likely to participate in sports they find appealing and less risky.
Area of Science:
- Sports Psychology
- Risk Perception Studies
- Human Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing participation in high-risk sports is crucial for safety and engagement.
- Previous research indicates a complex interplay between perceived risk, personal appeal, and behavioral intentions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between perceived risk, sport appeal, and likelihood of participation in various high-risk activities.
- To identify which factors most strongly predict engagement in extreme sports.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 282 men and 162 women assessing perceived risk, appeal, and participation likelihood for several high-risk sports.
- Statistical analysis, including profile analysis, was used to examine the relationships between the variables.
Main Results:
- Sports were ranked by perceived risk in ascending order: skiing, scuba diving, bungee jumping, rock climbing, motorcycle racing, hang gliding, cliff jumping, and skydiving.
- Likelihood of participation was positively correlated with sport appeal and negatively correlated with perceived risk.
Conclusions:
- The appeal of a high-risk sport significantly influences participation intent, often outweighing the perceived danger.
- Risk perception is a critical but not sole determinant in the decision-making process for engaging in extreme sports.