Understanding cultural perceptions of nature and related constraints to hunting participation among African American male hunters

Decreasing hunting participation is a concern for wildlife managers in the United States as hunter numbers have significantly declined (USFWS, 2016). The persistent deterioration of this base not only decreases funding for preserving natural areas but limits economic resources for rural communities. The primary objective of this research was to identify depictions of nature and hunting, as well as related perceived constraints to hunting participation, for African American hunters in the U.S. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with African American hunters (n=20) using thematic analysis to assist in the development of overarching concepts. Findings highlight a range of symbolic and emotional attachments to the natural world as well as varying motivations for participation in nature-based activities, including self-transcendence, liberation, health benefits, accumulation of outdoor knowledge, and alternative forms of stewardship. Additional themes underscored sociocultural complexities associated with perceptions of hunting and involved viewing hunting as a predominately White activity, historical racism and discrimination, unknown dangers, generational disconnect, and complex relationships with firearms. Constraints to participation in hunting were documented on all three levels of the hierarchical model of constraints to leisure. Primary intrapersonal constraints consisted of fear of discrimination and stereotypes, feeling unwelcome, and moral or ethical reservations toward hunting. Interpersonal constraints encompassed disparities with hunting culture, conflicts with other hunters, non-acceptance from peers or family, and lack of early exposure to hunting. Key structural constraints to participation included limited access to equipment, insufficient access to information or mentors, inadequate access, or proximity to land to hunt on, costs and financial burdens, as well as regulatory restrictions. Although some constraints shared conceptual overlap, differences, and similarities were also explored.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Natural Res & Env Sciences

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2024

Author dc:creator

• Pallazza, Samantha Gabriella

Contributors dc:contributor

• Miller, Craig
• Morgan, Eric
• Stodolksa, Monika
• Vaske, Jerry

• Hunting
• Wildlife Management
• African American Hunters

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2024 Samantha Pallazza

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/124708

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F124708