Making leisure and recreation research a scholarly topic: Views of a journal editor, 1972–1982

The founding co‐editor of Leisure Sciences provides a critical analysis of the events of 1972–1982 that shaped the topics of leisure and recreation research. Specific topics include: the development of publication outlets for research; leisure in the hierarchy of scholarly activity; the attempt to establish boundaries on leisure research; what are the criteria for acceptable research; and who does leisure research and where are they housed. The paper concludes with a review of the conflicts between leisure educators and leisure researchers and some suggestions for strengthening the professional organization of leisure researchers.