Recreation Theory and Philosophy

Karen Stansberry Beard & Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

The broad definition of flow is a person's sense of joy, creativity and an experience of total involvement in life. Such an experience fosters the development of a conscious state where optimal human functioning flourishes (Csikszentmihalyi, 1990). Qualitative and quantitative research on the topic has led to a definition of flow that includes nine sub-experiences that constitute the conscious state of flow. While based on the nine components of flow, often flow reflects a diverse experience based on the person's level of ability (expert vs. amateur), activity, and cultural background. Research within the area of flow and its applications is still young. Several areas within flow research need further exploration. This systematic review provides an in depth discussion of the theoretical foundations of flow, current research, and recommendations for expanding flow theory and research.

The purpose of this paper is to present a balanced and systematic leisure education service model grounded in positive psychology principles that are applied across diverse audiences and in various venues that is designed to facilitate the interrelated positive experiences of leisure, happiness, and flourishing (cf. Dattilo, 2015). Six principles help leisure educators work together with participants along with their families, friends, and communities so that they experience leisure, are happy, and flourish: These principles include intrinsic motivation, self-determination, flow, arousal, savoring, and positivity. The term leisure education describes a multifaceted, dynamic process that promotes exploration of perspectives and opportunities intended to develop an ethic of positivity and savoring that is conducive to flow, arousal, and leisure. Leisure education is designed to stimulate self-awareness, promote acquisition of leisurerelated knowledge, and encourage skill development that enhances self-determination by meeting needs for autonomy, competence, and social connections, which are influenced by a variety of factors and people including family members, educators, leisure service providers, and neighbors. Leisure education includes programs specifically intended to empower people to experience leisure and happiness and ultimately flourish and it includes information infused throughout services to encourage these positive experiences.

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