A theory of structured experience. Issue 1 (1st January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ellis, Gary D.; Freeman, Patti A.; Jamal, Tazim; Jiang, Jingxian
• Is Part Of: Annals of leisure research. Volume 22:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 97
• Page End: 118
• Publication Date: 2019-01-01
• Subjects: Structured experience -- immersion -- absorption -- engagement -- deep structured experience -- formal theory; Leisure -- Periodicals; Recreation -- Periodicals; Sports -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Tourism -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 306.481205
• DOI: 10.1080/11745398.2017.1312468
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1174-5398

Abstract

ABSTRACT: We extend Duerden, Ward, and Freeman's [2015. "Conceptualizing Structured Experiences." Journal of Leisure Research 47 (5): 601–620] 'structured experience' framework by proposing a formal theory of structured experiences. The theory advances propositions about how leisure service providers may structure environments and interactions to facilitate specific subjective experiences for guests and participants. Following the Duerden, Ward, and Freeman (2015) paper, the theory of structured experience is an integration of literature from leisure studies, tourism, and marketing. Formal definitions are provided for four co-created subjective experiences: immersion, absorption, engagement, and deep structured experience. Propositions about specific strategies providers can use to facilitate these experiences and to promote perceived value, positive affective responses, and delight are also provided. The paper concludes with a discussion of select research topics that follow from the theory.