Abstract
Statement of ProblemWomen, transgender, and nonbinary people and Black, Indigenous and people of color are participating at lower rates than cisgender men in outdoor recreation and outdoor adventure education programs (Outdoor Foundation, 2023), despite the healthy identity development benefits of time in nature (Budbill, 2008; Dodgers et al., 2023; Fiskum & Jacobsen, 2012; Galipeau, 2014; Goodman, 2022; Hartman, 2016; McNiel et al., 2012; Thomsen et al., 2018; Whittington, 2006). The literature review and mixed methods data collected in this study also draw correlations between participation in outdoor activities and environmental stewardship, to highlight another positive impact of outdoor adventure that many may be missing out on. The literature review explores the history of outdoor recreation in relationship to gender and race, and highlights messaging and representation in outdoor recreation media and outdoor education program marketing that continue to influence lower participation rates among the communities of interest.
Sources of Data
Using a mixed methods approach, the researcher surveyed adults who are women, transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, and gender non-conforming, and also self-identified as outdoor recreation enthusiasts, to gather sentiments about their experiences in nature. Qualitative narratives and quantitative demographic and behavioral data were collected through an online Qualtrics survey that was distributed through snowball and convenience sampling.
Conclusions Reached
The findings showed barriers to participation in outdoor recreation and education programs at the intersections of gender, race, and class. The researcher leveraged insights from the literature review and data to develop a set of recommendations for outdoor educators to help expand access and participation rates in wilderness adventure, including inclusive messaging suggestions, creating gender- and race-based affinity programs, and grant-funding programs to make them free or low cost.