Social benefits from skateboarding in skate-parks

Authors

Adam Walker
Myra F. Taylor, Edith Cowan UniversityFollow
Nerina Caltabiano
Julia A. Pooley, Edith Cowan UniversityFollow

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Title

Children and Childhood: Some International Aspects

Publisher

Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

School

School of Medical and Health Sciences / School of Arts and Humanities

RAS ID

45131

Comments

Walker, A., Taylor, M. F., Caltabiano, N., & Pooley, J. A. (2016). Social benefits from skateboarding in skate-parks. In J. Merrick (Ed.), Children and Childhood: Some International Aspects (pp. 163-177). Nova Science Publishers, Inc. https://novapublishers.com/shop/children-and-childhood-some-international-aspects/

Abstract

Social capital support and a sense of connection with place are recognised components of human wellbeing. This chapter examines the social capital support health benefits to be derived from skateboarding in skate-parks. A content analysis of 35 skateboarders‘ survey responses revealed the existence of four benefits, namely, establishing new and reconnecting with old friendships; bonding to a friendship group, gaining peer respect and status; and increased opportunities to interact with people. Collectively, these benefits expanded the skateboarders‘ social horizons by providing increased opportunities to gain community recognition and acceptance. The implications for planning integrated communities through enhancing skateboarding opportunities are discussed.

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