Physical Activity in Human Experience: Interdisciplinary Perspectives (book)
Internationally recognized scholars offer a holistic look at the physical activity sciences DESCRIPTION Physical Activity in Human Experience is the first book to offer a critical, interdisciplinary review of physical activity research and practice. Featuring contributions from seven internationally recognized scholars who respresent a wide range of disciplines, the book presents human activity from a holistic perspective, linking the research emerging from various disciplines within the field. The authors review the latest research and insights from each of their fields--biology and physical science, psychology, social psychology, social history and cultural studies, sociology, economics, and environmental studies--and explain how this knowledge contributes to a broader perspective of human physical activity. The result is a unique contribution to the field of physical activity science that * unlocks essential information from the confines of each discipline, * broadens the scope for research and debate in the field, * offers a critical, informed, multidisciplinary discussion of the implications of a holistic approach, and * provides a broad knowledge base to help practitioners develop effective and coherent public health policies and programs. AUDIENCE Supplemental text for multidisciplinary and social science courses in physical activity or sport. Reference for exercise scientists, physical activity researchers, recreation and leisure studies professionals, and health promotion and public health policy professionals. CONTENTS Introduction: Storm J. Russell and James E. Curtis Chapter 1. Biological Aspects of Active Living, Claude Bouchard, professor of exercise physiology and founder of the Laboratoire des Sciences de L'activite Physique at the Universite Laval in Quebec Chapter 2. Activity, Experiences, and Personal Growth, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, professor of psychology and education at the University of Chicago Chapter 3. The Social Psychology of Physical Activity, Leonard M. Wankel, professor of education and recreation at the University of Alberta, Canada Chapter 4. Sociological Perspectives on Physical Activity, Nancy Theberge, professor of kinesiology and sociology at the University of Waterloo, Canada Chapter 5. Economic Approaches to Physical Activity, Louise Russell, professor of economics and research at Rutgers University Chapter 6. The Politics and Ideology of Active Living in Historical P