A Critical Reflection on the Scarcity of Sense of Community Theory in Leisure Studies

The authors critically examine the underrepresentation of sense of community (SOC) theory within leisure studies, emphasizing its potential to enhance the understanding of social dynamics in leisure contexts. Although SOC is significant in fostering belonging and collective identity, leisure researchers rarely integrate this framework comprehensively. The authors delve into theoretical gaps, methodological challenges, limitations of the SOC framework, and the implications of overlooking SOC for both scholarship and practice. By advocating a greater incorporation of SOC theory into leisure studies, this commentary seeks to advance leisure research toward more holistic and dynamic analyses of community experiences in leisure settings.