Differences in Motivation for Participation and Attitudes Toward Management Among Rock Climbing Sub Groups: Implications for the Benefits-Based Management Approach

The purpose of this research was to develop a scale that would measure the motivation for participation of rock climbing subgroups, determine what differences exist among rock climbing subgroups and confirm the Rock Climbers' Attitudes toward Management Scale. Respondents were given an on-site questionnaire at three rock climbing areas in the United States. Respondents identified themselves according to their preferred type of climbing (e.g., traditional climbing, sport climbing, and hybrid climbing) and their preferred mode of climbing (e.g., lead climbing, top roping, and both equally). Exploratory factor analysis identified five factors for the Rock Climbing Motivation Scale: competition, control, escape, sensation seeking, and social. An analysis of variance confirmed there were no significant differences among types of climbers on the Rock Climbers' Motivation Scale or Rock Climbers' Attitudes toward Management Scale, contrary to previously reported findings. Mode of climbing was found to be a significant predicator of frequency of use, years of experience was found to be a significant predictor of frequency of use, and level of climbing ability was found to be a significant predictor of mode of climbing. The results of this study were then applied to the Benefits-Based Management Approach.