Perceived Value of Sport and Recreation in Aruba: Resident Perceptions of Health, Lifestyle, and Physical Activity

Authors

Stephen L. Shapiro, University of South CarolinaFollow
Andy Gillentine, University of South CarolinaFollow
Jo-Anne Croes, University of ArubaFollow
John Wardlaw, University of ArubaFollow

Abstract

Sport and recreation play an important role in shaping community well-being, particularly in small island nations where health and tourism are integrated. This study examines how Aruban residents perceive the value of sport and recreation and how these perceptions vary based on the type of activity and children’s participation in these activities. A mixed-methods design was used across two phases. Phase I employed focus groups with residents, educators, and government stakeholders to explore themes of health, community impact, and education. Findings emphasized concerns over inactivity and identified sport and recreation as essential to promoting healthy lifestyles, sense of community, and youth development. Phase II utilized a modified version of a value of sport instrument to survey 301 residents. Results of two-way ANOVA analyses revealed perceptions of sport and recreation’s impact on health and well-being were significantly higher among individuals with children participating in these activities. Interaction effects indicated that parents of children involved in formal sport and recreation expressed the strongest perceptions of value. Overall, Arubans highly value sport and recreation to promote physical activity and community health. The findings suggest integrating sport and recreation within national health and education policy could yield benefits across the country. This research contributes to limited literature on sport’s social and developmental role in small island contexts and provides guidance for policy strategies aimed at fostering a healthier, more active island population.

Keywords

Sport, Recreation, Physical Activity, Health, Well-being, Island Nations

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Shapiro, Stephen L.; Gillentine, Andy; Croes, Jo-Anne; and Wardlaw, John (2025) "Perceived Value of Sport and Recreation in Aruba: Resident Perceptions of Health, Lifestyle, and Physical Activity," Proceedings of the Recreation Experience Community Network Research Symposium: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/recnet_proceedings/vol1/iss1/4