Flow Experience in Paragliding: Effects on Experience and Life Satisfaction

Abstract

Although individuals' life satisfaction have been studied in a tourism setting, there has been limited research suggesting the flow experience as a predictor of life satisfaction. Studies investigating the antecedents of flow experience in an adventure setting are also scarce. Therefore, this study was aimed to explore the interrelationships among these constructs using a quantitative design. A sample drawn from 296 paragliding participants in Turkey was used. Structural equation modeling approach was utilized to test the research model. The results strongly supported six of seven hypotheses; the sense of control dimension was not supported. Sensation seeking dimension was first time supported as an antecedent of flow experience in paragliding activity. Challenge–skill balance and concentration were also found as strong antecedents of flow state. The direct and indirect relationships through experience satisfaction between flow experience and life satisfaction was also demonstrated in this setting. Results are discussed and recommendations are identified for adventure tourism managers.