Increasing public involvement to reduce depreciative behavior in recreation settings

Abstract

Managers of public recreation areas are concerned about the increase in vandalism, littering, and user disregard for regulations and the rights of others. Several strategies are available to reduce or control depreciative behavior, but little empirical evidence exists as to what approaches are really successful, where, when, and under what conditions. This report evaluated a program to increase the involvement of campers in the management of depreciative behavior. Results suggested that users who witness littering can be encouraged to help either by reporting infractions to authorities, dealing directly with the litterer, or picking up the litter. Overall, an appeal made to help resulted in a 22 percent increase in one or more types of involvement compared to control conditions.