International Journal of Sport Management

Exploring Recreation Participation and Sense of Community in the Canadian Military

Hilary Pollock, Martha Barnes

Abstract: Sense of community is believed to be greater when individuals are actively engaged in their communities. Attaining a sense of community for individuals working in the Canadian military can be challenging for a number of reasons including the high percentage of personnel who live off base, frequent moves, and continual deployments. Complicating these living conditions are concerns around alarming rates of increased mental health issues which encompass depression, suicidal thoughts, and traumatic brain injuries. Participating in recreation and sport activities can provide opportunities for engagement, thereby fostering a sense of community. However, scholars have noted that communities, including military communities across North America, are seeing a decline in community services participation (e.g., recreation, sport) which negatively impacts sense of community. The purpose of this research was to study the relationship between participation in recreational opportunities and sense of community in a Canadian military setting. Questionnaires were administered at a Canadian Armed Forces Base. Results indicated that three sense of community factors: voluntary action, common interest, and administrative consideration, predicted recreation participation among Canadian Armed Forces members. The results create a unique discussion for scholars and military personnel regarding the relationship among each of these factors, as these factors are all related to personal and group cohesion. Future research should explore sense of community in other military settings to further understand the role of recreation and sense of community.

Citation: Pollock, H., & Barnes, M. (2021). Exploring recreation participation and sense of community in the Canadian military. International Journal of Sport Management, 22(2), 133-150.

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