A Means-End Investigation of Ropes Course Experiences

Abstract

Means-end theory and its associated methodology provide an approach for investigating the meanings that individuals associate witii the products and services they purchase, consume, and experience. Drawing from this means-end perspective, a study was conducted to develop a better understanding of the range of benefits that result from participating in a ropes course program. A sample of 125 participants from two ropes course programs identified the benefits they derived from their ropes course experience. Using a self-administered laddering procedure, subjects then provided information about the higher-level outcomes and values related to these benefits. An analysis of this means-end data provided insight into the relationship among the range of benefits and values associated with completing a ropes course. The study findings hold important implications for researchers interested in studying ropes courses or conducting means-end research in other leisure and recreation settings.