The effects of Covid-19 on young adults´outdoor recreation habits. A comparison between Sweden and Mexico

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic, that became a global phenomenon in March 2020, has been causing disruptions globally and across all sectors. And, as nations around the world attempted to contain the spread, lockdowns and strong restriction were set in place, directly affecting peoples' time outdoors. Due to this, studies have surfaced explaining the effects of the pandemic on outdoor recreation habits across most demographic groups and in studies from all parts of the world. However, one demographic group; young adults and their outdoor recreation habits, have been somewhat overlooked by research and recreation experts, both pre- and post-pandemic, consequently creating a knowledge gap on the topic and in available recreation literature. By applying a series of focus groups and semi structured interviews, this thesis examines and gains knowledge regarding outdoor recreation habits of Swedish and Mexican young adults, and the effects the Covid-19 pandemic has had on their habits. Among other things, the results show a general move towards locally based recreation, changes in socialisation processes, and a series of motivational factors and constraints in young adults’ outdoor recreation habits. General implications and suggestions for outdoor recreation management in times of crisis are also identified and explored, with emphasis on themes such as safety, participatory processes, provision of adequate accessible spaces for recreation, and further research suggestions.