Psychological contributions to the study of leisure — Part two

The first part of this review (Ingham, 1986) considered the major research directions by psychologists into aspects of leisure and the leisure experience. This second part discusses some of the implications of the theoretical approaches, the major one being that greater attention needs to be paid by providers to the subjective experiences of the actual and potential users of facilities. Following a brief discussion of leisure and unemployment, it is argued that a more social psychological approach, reflecting individuals' self-identities is required to advance the contribution of psychology to the study of leisure. Kelly's (1983) approach using the concept of ‘role identity’ is seen as a start in this direction.