Gender-Based Differences in Birdwatchers' Participation and Commitment

This study explored possible gender-based differences in birdwatching participation and commitment using a sample of North Carolina birding organization members. Within the theoretical contexts of recreational specialization and symbolic interactionism we examined whether male and female birdwatchers differed in objective measures of participation such as frequency of participation, birding skills, monetary investment, and years of participation. We then examined differences between men and women in their psychological commitment to birding and why they first decided to get involved in the activity. Findings indicated that men were significantly more involved in birding in terms of their objective behavior and skill level. They were also slightly more committed to birding than were the women, although these differences were less pronounced than for behavior and skill. Numerous differences in why men and women initially decided to become involved in the activity were also found. Implications for both future research and management are discussed.