CORRELATES OF SELF-REPORTED LEISURE AMONG ADULTS WITH MENTAL-RETARDATION

Activity theorists propose that leisure activity is important to perceived well-being in adulthood and that many factors may influence activity patterns. Current assumptions supported by researchers in the field of disabilities are that the expression of personal preferences and interests increases perceptions of self-worth and independence in adults with mental retardation. Empirical evidence that systematically describes the leisure activity patterns of adults with mental retardation, however, is not widely available. This article presents the findings from a study of self-reported participation in, preferences for, and interests in 18 leisure activities by a sample of 121 adults with moderate mental retardation. The relationships of age, sex, and functional competence to these self-report measures were explored using logistic regression analysis. Selected results are consistent with patterns of involvement in the general adult population (e.g., decreased expected probabilities of participation in physical activities with age, with the exception of walking for pleasure). Other findings show distinct patterns for individuals with developmental disabilities (e.g., a lower likelihood of dating but a higher probability of preferring to date by older adults). Recommendations for extending this line of inquiry are presented.