Leisure capital: conceptualization and scale development

Although various forms of capital have been extensively examined in leisure research, leisure capital remains conceptually underdeveloped and lacks a comprehensive measure. Therefore, this study developed and validated a multidimensional leisure capital scale. Preliminary items were generated through focus group interviews and content analysis. An initial survey was then conducted among 365 serious leisure participants to refine the items, following which a second survey was performed among 391 members of the general public to re-examine the factor structure and assess reliability and validity. The resulting 24-item scale comprised six dimensions: cultural, social, economic, technical, psychological and bodily capital. A third survey of 531 members of the general public provided support for this scale’s nomological validity. The final scale provides a comprehensive measure of resources that support leisure participation and offers a foundation for examining leisure capital and related outcomes. It can also guide leisure participants and venue operators in selecting and planning activities.