"Americans feel under increasing financial pressure, given the recession, but at the same time, there may be a silver lining," said Rebecca Shahmoon Shanok, a psychologist who helped analyze results from this study. "Materialistic values are on the decline," she said. "It's sort of wonderful in a way. Necessity breeds good things."

The study also found a 9-point rise, from 29 percent to 38 in 1991, in those who embrace "leaving the world to the next generation in better shape" as one of their most important values.

In a dramatic shift since 1989, 84 percent of adults now strongly agree that "family is the place where most basic values are instilled" — a rise of 22 percentage points.

How does this survey relate to the park and recreation field?

It means that people are reverting back to basic family values. It means that Americans are looking for recreational activities in which they can participate with the entire family. People are looking for alternatives to fast-paced lifestyles that leave little time for family.

This trend is an important indicator for the park and recreational professional. Recreation programmers, for example, have to consider "family-oriented" activities to accommodate this shift in ideals. Parents are looking for alternatives to television and video games to influence their children. We can offer them the alternatives.

This survey is important to us as we examine the trends and future of parks, recreation and conservation. Results from polls such as this one affect how we do business, and how we should schedule programs.

With the economy in its present condition, people are not spending large amounts of money on material items or on entertainment. But, through park and recreation programs, they don't have to spend large sums of money to enjoy a family activity. This dramatic shift should not be overlooked.

On The Cover

Lois Patterson of
Plainfield captured this
issue's cover photograph
of day lilies blooming near a
pond at the Lockport
Prairie Nature Preserve.