1

The Effects of Specific Recreational Activities on Patients with Similar Substance

Addictions

Brandy L. McGlynn

Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management, Penn State University

RPTM 433W: Program Evaluation and Research in Recreation Services

Dr. Birgitta Baker

April 28, 2021

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The Effects of Specific Recreational Activities on Patients with Similar Substance

Addictions

This particular topic is important because substance abuse is a continuous issue in this

country. People who struggle with addiction often find themselves revolving their life around

their addiction and seeking out that substance. Those who abuse drugs are searching for a

constant sensation and optimal arousal (Iso-Ahola, 1991). The brain becomes heavily reliant on

this regular routine and the person struggling finds themselves trapped in this cycle. This can

negatively impact full aspects of their life like their health, relationships, career, and overall

well-being. Another issue involving drug abuse is the crime surrounding it. For example, one

study examined family with troubled children, and aggression was a common emotion in half the

households (Greenfield, 1995). People that use are not like themselves and can even turn

dangerous or violent without realizing it. The exchange of illegal substances can also turn

violent and harmful when money is involved or when the law gets involved. Treatments, such as

behavioral counseling and medication, can be costly or even ineffective for some. This is why

alternatives are needed.

The purpose of this project is to observe the effectiveness of recreational activities as

treatment for patients with substance abuse. In contribution to past research, this report will

observe the effects of specific recreational activities in relation to specific substance addictions.

For example, do people who consume marijuana prefer recreational activities, like painting, over

more active ones. The idea is understand the similarities between substance preferences and

recreation preferences.
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Literature Review

Autonomy-Supportive Addiction Recovery

Self-Determination

According to the self-determination theory, the self-determination is about internal

motivation and drive. It assumes that “humans are active, growth-oriented organisms constantly

working toward a more elaborate and unified sense of self” (Deci, 2000). The theory suggests

that three things need to be achieved in order for a substance abuse patient to grow and learn

from recreational therapy. Those things are competence, relatedness, and autonomy. Cogswell

explains that competence is feeling effective in social interactions and basic expression of

capacities. Relatedness is about the way one feels connected to others and the sense of

community that is felt within a certain group of people. Autonomy is very important as this part

is about being able to control your own actions and behavior. If one is able to achieve all three of

these, they may begin to feel motivated and ready to succeed in their goals.

It should be noted that “when it comes to addiction, recovery appears to be an issue of

motivation” (West, 2001). The medical, social, and mental problems that stem from addiction, all

affect the person’s freedom of choice and their autonomy. They may find it difficult to find the

desire to succeed because they want to focus their energy and their intention toward their drug of

choice. Therefore, it is important to focus on that part of someone’s recovery process for drug

abuse victims.

If patients are in environment that is considered autonomy-supportive, there will most

likely be an effect on the desires they have. The patients will feel that they can make decisions

and take ownership of their behavior. According to Cogswell, “Offering a rationale to adopt a

specific behavior, displaying empathy or taking the perspective of others, and giving individuals
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the opportunity to choose are three variables that support autonomy” (Cogswell, 2011). The

patients may begin to feel that they are competent enough, relatable enough, and independent

enough to beat their addiction and grow from their issues.

A Sense of Community

As mentioned, relatedness is a large part of achieving corrective motivation. There was

study done in Cape Town, South Africa. In two neighborhoods, “all unemployed men aged 18-

25 years were recruited and randomized by neighborhood to: (1) an immediate intervention

condition with access to a soccer program, random rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) for alcohol and

drug use, and an opportunity to enter a vocational training program (n = 72); or (2) a delayed

control condition (n = 70)” (Rotheram-borus, 2016). It was surprising to see that almost all men

participated in this study at 98%. Job training was also made available to these men, so they

could gain good opportunities by participating. The RDTs eventually started showing that

alcohol and drug use was decreasing over the time they were participating in the soccer program.

It was seen that these tests and participation in the soccer intervention, was highly engaging to

the young men and even decreased substance abuse over 6 months.

There was concern that the men gathering together would only create worst conditions in

these neighborhoods. However, it was seen that there was an opposite effect. These men had

something to focus their time and energy toward. The more of them that would show a genuine

interest, the more of them would actually work toward improvement and growth in soccer. This

is an important part for a patient’s recovery. They need that backbone of people that can really

support them in their times of need and weakness. Having that sense relatedness, can really allow

patients to feel that they belong to community that they may not want to disappoint.
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The Benefit of Choice

When looking a recreation as a treatment process for patients with abuse issues, it is

worth is to mention that the number of options a patient has is important. One study observed the

effects that traditional methods of individual, group, and family treatment had on patient and also

observed the patient’s thoughts and feelings to more holistic methods of treatment. These

methods included “dance/movement therapy, Tai Chi, art therapy, leisure and recreational skills,

spiritual growth and development, cultural awareness and appreciation, vocational services,

psychiatric care and physical health” (Breslin, 2003). These methods apparently have more of

focus on the absence of a substance abuse. They tend to have a more direct way of dealing with a

patient’s emotional, physical, and social well-being by allowing the patient to move from a

“from a reactive, chaotic existence to a proactive, productive lifestyle” (Breslin, 2003).

It was seen that these treatments were better for self-exploration and the appropriation of

the expression of the patients’ feelings. They were more adaptive in terms of that patient being

able to soothe and comfort their mind, body, and spirit. This treatment facility saw that patients

were more satisfied with a more diverse program. There was also a consensus of the staff that

“offering these nontraditional services has led to increased participation in treatment” (Breslin,

2003). It there are more recreational activities and options, there will most likely be an increase it

patients’ motivation to recover from their addiction.

Diverse Activities in Therapeutic Recreation

Specific Activities for Specific Addiction

One study reveals that “individuals who engage in regular aerobic exercise are less likely

to use and abuse illicit drugs” (Smith, 2012). It was uncertain the role that exercise played in this

relationship. It can be seen from multiple studies that certain recreational activities have an effect
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that can compare to “protective effects in procedures designed to model different transitional

phases that occur during the development of, and recover from, a substance use disorder” (Smith,

2012). This means that several factors of exercise may be responsible for the protective effects

that occur within addiction. This study indicates aerobic activity can decrease substance use due

to it being an alternative way to feel the effects that are similar to consuming a substance. One

study showed that sports and weight-training were the more popular recreational activities

among a group of patients. There is a male dominance in substance abuse treatment centers, so

with weight-training being a solitary activity, more males are probably drawn to it. However, it

still encourages teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skill development. It is also a good

replacement for patients with cocaine or crack addictions. They both produce similar feelings

throughout the body, so it makes sense why it would be one of the most popular recreational

outlets.

Adolescent Substance Abuse

Adolescents with Substance Abuse

There is a higher focus on recreational therapy in response to adolescent patients with

substance abuse issues. This is most likely due to children being more affected by their leisure

time and what they have experienced in the past. One study observed multiple treatment facilities

across the United States to find that fewer than half of them offered a recreation program to kids.

According to the study, “Leisure education/counseling, sports, and community leisure activities

were the most frequently offered programs” (Nation, 1996). Many of these facilities has a

shortage of staff making it difficult to offer a wide array of recreational options and programs. It

was found that these facilities wanted adolescents to grow from their addiction by improving

their social skills, their self-esteem, and improve their level of cooperation. When working with
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children with the same issue, it is important to improve other aspects of their personality before

working on their addiction. There is most likely a lack of knowledge for certain leisure

opportunities, so getting this information to them is crucial to see growth within their recovery.

Boredom

A common issue among adolescent substance abuse patients is that they tend to get more

bored with recreational activities than non-users do. It was found that they were more likely to

get bored because of their need for their substance. It can become difficult to enjoy recreation

without the euphoric feeling that their substance would add to the experience. A more

experimental approach for treatment, rather than passive, will prevent relapse more effectively

(Iso-Ahola, 1991). It should also be noted that drug users were more likely to have an interest in

recreational activity due to their need of constant sensation and arousal. Therefore, therapeutic

recreation may be a great treatment option for a child struggling to get over a life-threatening

addiction.

Neurobiological Effects of Exercise

Comparable Chemicals

There is evidence that shows that the chemicals that are released by the brain are similar

when both exercising and consuming substances. It is said that “that exercise influences many of

the same signaling molecules and neuroanatomical structures that mediate the positive

reinforcing effects of drugs. For instance, several neurotransmitters controlling drug self-

administration are modulated by both acute and chronic bouts of exercise. The positive

reinforcing effects of many drugs of abuse, including stimulants, opioids, and alcohol, are

mediated, in part, by increases in the concentration of the catecholamine dopamine in the nucleus

accumbens (Leshner, 1999). It is important for therapist to understand what heavily affects the
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patients due to exercise possibly causing relapse. It may be an activity that pushes them to a

similar mindset, considering the brain releases similar chemicals during both activities.

Leisure Activity Before Addiction

Participation in Physical Activity as Prevention

One review examined literature that from preclinical and clinical studies “using either

associational or random assignment study designs. In addition to examining drug use as an

outcome variable, the potential neural mediators linking physical activity and drug abuse

vulnerability were examined” (Bardo, 2015). The studies suggest that therapeutic recreation is a

good preventive treatment program that reduces drug use with alcohol being an exception. The

study also concluded that “there is essentially no solid information from random control studies

to know if physical activity may prevent initiation of problem use. (Bardo, 2015). Therefore,

there is a need for a controlled study to observe the preventive effects of physical activity as

form of prevention.

Participation in Physical Activity as Causation

There is a link between physical activity and substance abuse that be alarming when

considering using it as treatment. One study found that “substance abusers had a tendency to be

more active in general as their total leisure participation score was significantly higher than non-

substance-abusing subjects” (Iso-Ahola, 1991). This can be explained by patients’ need for

optimal arousal that exhibits high levels of leisure boredom. They decrease this boredom through

illicit substances. The substance abuse becomes a form of leisure for the patient. The study also

suggests that substance-abusers participated more frequently in recreational activities, like

football and skateboarding. With playing a sport comes a connection to teammates and a

community to grow from. This can explain why they also attend more concerts than non-drug
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users (Iso-Ahola, 1991). It is suggested that therapist can provide patients with opportunities to

experience leisure that meet the same needs that the substance provided for the patient.

Conclusions

Summary of Major Findings

According to these studies, it can be said that recreational activities are a large part of the

preventative treatment in substance abuse patients. These programs usually helps the patient

understand what their needs are as people and the type of leisure activities they should be

seeking out. That way they can build on their self-determination and independence away from

their illicit substance. There should options for different activities within the programs, so they

can feel that they are making choices for themselves. It may also be important to note whether or

not their substance can be replicated through physical activity. For example, someone who uses

steroids may be more likely to use if they are working out and are surrounded by people who

use. Therefore, it may be better for them to explore other leisure options. Adolescents with

substance abuse need recreational programs help them to grow as people and learn about the

leisure activities that fit their needs. It should be noted that these activities come with a

community of people. This can be either a positive or a negative. Being a part of community may

help a person feel that are competent and able to handle everyday situations. It also means that

more people around means a higher chance for substance exposure. There is higher chance that

someone may abuse drugs in certain social situations that they would not be in, otherwise.

Limitations of current research

There are not a lot of recent studies on this topic. A majority of the information included

in this study is from years ago. There needs to be more studies on how patients have been

responding to their treatment programs over the years. The number of patients who returned to
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facilities should also be studied, to prove if therapeutic recreation can be considered a

preventative treatment for substance abuse patients. Furthermore, the research that is truly

needed pertaining to this issue is information about how specific recreational activities work as

treatment for specific substance addictions. If recreational therapists understood this information,

they could create tailored programs for people with certain substance abuse issues. This would

reach a higher crowd of recovering patients.

Research Questions

Recreational therapy does appear to be an effective treatment in patients with substance

abuse. However, with the current research that already exists, it may be more helpful to

understand a question like, “how do certain recreational activities effect certain addictions in

terms of treatment?’ For instance, the brain releases similar chemicals during a weight training

session and a cocaine high, so understanding which activities work for which substance will help

more patients recover. Patients would have a program specifically designed to fit their needs and

grow as people. To answer the main question of the study, it would make sense that people

addicted to depressive drugs would benefit from more sedentary activities, while people addicted

to stimulants will prefer more active forms of recreation. Additionally, it may be beneficial to

understand the question, “Are patients that abuse the same substances attracted to the same

preferences?” Similar to the answer to the main question, it would not be surprising if those

addicted to depressants preferred solitary leisure and those addicted to stimulants preferred group

leisure. Finally, it may be useful to know the answer to the question, “Are the people addicted to

substances, more likely or less likely to experience leisure education during their childhood?”

Considering substance abuse patient seek out euphoric sensations and feelings, the impact that

having knowledge and experience leisure activities have on a person is important. If children can
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understand which leisure activities appeal to them, they may not seek out substance to fill that

leisure boredom.

Methods

Procedures

Study Context

To understand the effectiveness of specific therapeutic recreational activities as a

preventative measure for patients that suffer from abuse of the same substance, the study will be

completed in differing regions of the United States. These include the Northeast, Southeast,

Midwest, Northwest, and Southwest. This way there is research pertaining to patients in different

types of environment, such as urban or rural.

This study will begin by different observing inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and

treatment facilities. They will be selected based on their environment and various recreational

activities they offer to their patients. There will also be one facility selected from each region.

This research will aid these facilities in designing future programs for their patients that are

effective and possibly inexpensive for patients.

Participants

The study will involve choosing patients at the facility based on their addiction. The

sample size will be 10 patients per facility and will include both inpatient and outpatient subjects

that will be a variety of ages, backgrounds, genders, and demographics. Therefore, the total

sample will be 50 patients. They will be offered compensation of $25 to participate in the

questionnaire or interview and $25 if they complete it.

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Data Collection Methods

Data collected will be qualitative. The data will involve the thoughts, opinions, and

reactions as answers to questions regarding the subjects’ addiction and recreational treatment

programs. The consent forms for patients will inform them that their identities will not be

released, neither will their personal information. They will have the option of being recorded,

while being interviewed or completing the survey completely alone and away from others.

Instrumentation

Data will be found using a recorded interview or a paper questionnaire. They will be

formatted in a way that makes the answers similar to one another. The subjects’ answers and

reactions to questions will be recorded to understand the way certain activities affect them and

their addiction. Similarities and patterns will be observed from the data to figure if specific

recreational activities affect certain substance addiction more than others. The study will also

involve searching for similar preferences among people with the same drug addiction.

Data Analysis

Patterns found among the data collected will be clustered and counted to search for

similarities between those with the same addiction. Specific recreational activities or recreational

treatment programs will be discussed in interviews, so patients can show a genuine reaction to

specific activities or programs they have participated in within the facility. Patients will be asked

about their favorite activities and what works best for them. Patients will be asked if they would

be interested in participating a future interview within the next five years, so their progress can

be tracked with their recreational therapy programs. This study will have a strong validity

because this research is only meant to help future patients combat their addiction. It is not meant

to harm subjects’ reputations or images in anyway. The questions will provide insight on the
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similarities between those with the same substance addiction. The preferences of the patients will

be known. If therapists can understand how well a certain activity works towards a certain

addiction, then the patient and the therapist could avoid wasting time on preventative treatments

that will not match the patient’s needs. If patients choose to be interviewed, the questions will be

formatted in a more conversational manner, rather than straight-forward question. The data being

collected from those completing the questionnaire on their own will have detailed questions that

answer how the patient felt, reacted, or thought. It is important patient to be kept anonymous to

anyone besides the researcher, so making sure the information is secure and out of others’ view

will be crucial to gain the subjects’ trust. Gaining trust may provide for honest answers. The

confidentiality form will create a trusted bond between the interviewer and patient, so they do

not fear being judged based on their answers and their beliefs.
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References

Bardo, B. T., & Compton, W. M. (2015) Does physical activity protect against drug abuse

vulnerability? Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 153, 3-13.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871615002914?

casa_token=m3GiAMCeFKoAAAAA:hAXCg0fjZPnVOcKuwYFkaTGAQMWwRatLvc

VWrc7S0pZ540TbvWIXYroc3PWWVU402j5u5sZ718Q

Breslin, K. T., Reed, M. R., & Malone, S. B. (2003). An holistic approach to substance abuse

treatment. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 35(2), 247-51.

http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://www-proquest-

com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/scholarly-journals/holistic-approach-substance-abuse-

treatment/docview/207973290/se-2?accountid=13158

Cogswell, J., & Negley, S. K. (2011). The Effect of Autonomy-Supportive Therapeutic

Recreation Programming on Integrated Motivation for Treatment among Persons who

Abuse Substances.  Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 45(1), 47-61.

http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://www-proquest-

com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/scholarly-journals/effect-autonomy-supportive-therapeutic-

recreation/docview/923770929/se-2?accountid=13158

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic

motivation, social development, and well-being. American Physiologist, 55(1), 68-78.

http://dx.doi.org.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68

Greenfield, B. J., & Senecal, J. (1995). Recreational multifamily therapy for troubled children.

American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 65(3), 434-439.

http://dx.doi.org.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/10.1037/h0079696
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Iso-Ahola, S., & Crowley, E. D. (1991). Adolescent Substance Abuse and Leisure

Boredom. Journal of Leisure Research, 23(3), 260. http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?

url=https://www-proquest-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/scholarly-journals/adolescent-

substance-abuse-leisure-boredom/docview/1308689793/se-2?accountid=13158

Leshner, A. I., & Koob, G. F. (1999). Drugs of abuse and the brain. Proceedings of the

Association of American Physicians, 111, 99–108.

Nation, J. M., Benshoff, J. J., & Malkin, M. M. (1996). Therapeutic Recreation Programs for

Adolescents in Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities. Journal of Rehabilitation, 62(4), 10.

http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://www-proquest-

com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/scholarly-journals/therapeutic-recreation-programs-

adolescents/docview/1310697432/se-2?accountid=13158

Rotheram-borus, M., Tomlinson, M., Durkin, A., Baird, K., Decelles, J., & Swendeman, D.

(2016). Feasibility of Using Soccer and Job Training to Prevent Drug Abuse and HIV. AIDS

and Behavior, 20(9), 1841-1850.

https://search-proquest-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/docview/1813562662/

B2E759E01C404F63PQ/7?accountid=13158

Smith, M., Lynch W. (2012) Exercise as a Potential Treatment for Drug Abuse: Evidence from

Preclinical Studies. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2. 82.

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00082/full

West, R. (2001). Theories of Addiction. Addiction, 96 (1), 3-13.

http://dx.doi.org.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/10.1046/j.1360-0443.2001.96131.x

Appendix A
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Interview Questions & Questionnaire

How old are you?

How long have you been at this treatment facility (name of facility)?

How often have you relapsed?

What substance are you receiving treatment for?

How does it make you feel? Mentally? Physically?

Do you prefer consuming the substance alone or with others?

How does it affect your everyday life?

How does it affect the people around you?

Do you enjoy taking part in recreational activities? Which ones? Favorites?

Which do you like the least?

Would you say your favorite activity is the most beneficial to you?

Have you had recreational programs designed for you by a therapist?

What activities did you like before treatment?

What activities have you been exposed to from treatment?

Do you prefer active leisure or sedentary/inactive leisure?

Do you feel that you had access to recreation as a child? What kind?

What type of environment did you grow up in?

Did you play sports as a child?

Did your find physical education or other special activities fun in school?

Do find recreation therapy as a useful treatment program for your substance abuse?

Appendix B
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CONSENT FOR RESEARCH

The Pennsylvania State University

Title of Project: The Effects of Specific Recreational Activities on Patients with Similar Substance Addictions

Principal Investigator: Brandy McGlynn

Address: 601 Vairo Blvd, State College, PA 16803

Telephone Number: 570-926-7816

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Birgitta Baker

Faculty Advisor Telephone Number: 814-863-0602

Subject’s Printed Name: _____________________________

We are asking you to be in a research study. This form gives you information about the research.
Whether or not you take part is up to you. You can choose not to take part. You can agree to take part
and later change your mind. Your decision will not be held against you and there will be no penalty or
loss of benefits to which you are entitled.
Please ask questions about anything that is unclear to you and take your time to make your choice.

Some of the people who are eligible to take part in this research study may not be able to give consent
because they are less than 18 years of age (a minor). Instead we will ask their parent(s)/guardian(s) to
give permission for their participation in the study, and we may ask them to agree (give assent) to take
part. Throughout the consent form, when we say “you” we mean you or your child.

KEY INFORMATION
The following is a short summary of this study to help you decide whether or not to be a part of this
research. More detailed information is listed later in this form. If you have any questions, be sure to ask
the study team.

Why am I being invited to take part in a research study?

We invite you to take part in a research study because information regarding your treatment program
may improve future patients’ treatment programs

What is the purpose of this research study?

The purpose of this voluntary research study is to understand the similarities of the recreational
preferences of those with the same substance addiction

How long will the research study last?

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The study will take 20-30 minutes, possibly not even.

What will you need to do?

For this study, you will be asked to answer questions using your initial reaction, thoughts, or opinions.

What are the main risks of taking part in the study?

For this study, the main risk to know about is some questions may be difficult or triggering to answer,
especially regarding substance abuse and addiction.

What are the possible benefits to you that may reasonably be expected from being in the research?

We cannot promise any benefits to you from your taking part in this study. However, possible benefits
include earning compensation/pay of $25.00 for attempting to participate and another $25.00 for
completing the interview/questionnaire.

Results of the study may benefit other people in the future by helping us learn more about recreational
therapy as form of treatment for patients with substance abuse.

What happens if you do not want to be in this research?

Participation in research is completely voluntary. You can decide to participate or not to participate. You
may miss out on compensation.

DETAILED INFORMATION
The following is more detailed information about this study in addition to the information provided
above.

1. Why is this research study being done?

This research is being done to find out similarities between patients with the same addictions and
their recreational or leisure preferences

Approximately 50 people will take part in this research study in the United States

2. What will happen in this research study?

There will either be recorded interview or paper questionnaire consisting of questions regarding
substance abuse and recreation therapy programs.

3. What are the risks and possible discomforts from being in this research study?

There is a risk that subjects will become upset or distressed if they are asked to describe information
regarding their substance abuse.
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There is a risk of loss of confidentiality if your information or your identity is obtained by someone other
than the investigators, but precautions will be taken to prevent this from happening. The
confidentiality of your electronic data created by you or by the researchers will be maintained as
required by applicable law and to the degree permitted by the technology used. Absolute
confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

4. What are the possible benefits from being in this research study?
4a. What are the possible benefits to you?

You will not benefit from this research study. Taking part in this research study will not improve your
housing or correctional program assignments. Your taking part in this research study will not improve
your chances of parole or release.”

4b. What are the possible benefits to others?

The results of this research may guide the future treatment of substance abuse patients and the
recreation therapy programs that are offered to them in treatment.

5. What other options are available instead of being in this research study?

You may decide not to participate in this research study.

6. How long will you take part in this research study?

If you agree to take part, it will take you about 20-30 minutes to complete this research study. You
will be asked to visit the research site 1-2 times.

7. How will your privacy and confidentiality be protected if you decide to take part in this research
study?
7a. What happens to the information collected for the research?

Efforts will be made to limit the use and sharing of your personal research information to people who
have a need to review this information. Reasonable efforts will be made to keep the personal
information in your research record private. However, absolute confidentiality cannot be
guaranteed.

 Your research records will be labeled with names and medical history and will be kept in a safe area
in a locked box within the private investigator’s knowledge

In the event of any publication or presentation resulting from the research, no personally identifiable
information will be shared.

We will do our best to keep your participation in this research study confidential to the extent
permitted by law. However, it is possible that other people may find out about your participation in this
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research study. For example, the following people/groups may check and copy records about this
research.
 The Office for Human Research Protections in the U. S. Department of Health and Human
Services
 The Institutional Review Board (a committee that reviews and approves research studies) and
Penn State’s Office for Research Protections.

7b. What will happen to my research information and/or samples after the study is completed?

We may use your research information for future research studies or may share your information
other investigators here or at other institutions for future research without your additional informed
consent. Future research may be similar to this study or completely different. Before we use or
share your information or samples we will remove any information that shows your identity.

8. What happens if you are injured as a result of taking part in this research study?
In the unlikely event you become injured as a result of your participation in this study, medical
care is available. It is the policy of this institution to provide neither financial compensation nor
free medical treatment for research-related injury. By signing this document, you are not
waiving any rights that you have against The Pennsylvania State University for injury resulting
from negligence of the University or its investigators.

1. Will you be paid or receive credit to take part in this research study?

You will receive $25.00 for your participation once in this research study and $25.00 for completing
it for a total of $50.00.

10. Who is paying for this research study?

Funds from the Penn State College of Health and Human Development Department of Recreation,
Park, And Tourism Management will be used to support this research.

11. What are your rights if you take part in this research study?

Taking part in this research study is voluntary.

 You do not have to be in this research.
 If you choose to be in this research, you have the right to stop at any time.
 If you decide not to be in this research or if you decide to stop at a later date, there will be no
penalty or loss of benefits to which you are entitled.

If you decide to leave the research, you will not earn the other $25.00. If you decide to leave the
research, inform the investigator so that the investigator can avoid asking more questions.

During the course of the research you will be provided with any new information that may affect your
health, welfare or your decision to continue participating in this research.

12. If you have questions or concerns about this research study, whom should you call?
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Please call the head of the research study (principal investigator), Brandy McGlynn at 5709267816 if
you:
 Have questions, complaints or concerns about the research, including questions about
compensation.
 Believe you may have been harmed by being in the research study.

You may also contact the Office for Research Protections at (814) 865-1775, IRB-ORP@psu.edu if you:
 Have questions regarding your rights as a person in a research study.
 Have concerns, complaints, or general questions about the research.
 You may also call this number if you cannot reach the research team or wish to offer input or
to talk to someone else about any concerns related to the research.

You may visit the Office for Research Protections’ website at

https://www.research.psu.edu/irb/participants for:
 Information about your rights when you are in a research study;
 Information about the Institutional Review Board (IRB), a group of people who review the
research to protect your rights; and
 Links to the federal regulations and information about the protection of people who are in
research studies. If you do not have access to the internet, copies of these federal regulations
are available by calling the ORP at (814) 865-1775.

INFORMED CONSENT TO TAKE PART IN RESEARCH

Signature of Person Obtaining Informed Consent

Your signature below means that you have explained the research to the subject or subject
representative, provided the subject or subject representative an opportunity to discuss and consider
whether or not to participate in the research, and have answered any questions the subject or subject
representative has about the research.

______________________________ _________ ________________

Signature of person who explained this research Date Printed Name
(Only approved investigators for this research may explain the research and obtain informed consent.)

Signature of Person Giving Informed Consent

Before making the decision about being in this research you should have:
 Discussed this research study with an investigator,
 Read the information in this form, and
 Had the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Your signature below means that you have received this information, have asked the questions you
currently have about the research and those questions have been answered. You will receive a copy of the
signed and dated form to keep for future reference.

General Instructions: Include signature line(s) as appropriate to the subject population and consent
process described in the protocol documents. Delete those signature lines that are not applicable. The
 22

persons signing the informed consent form (subject, parent/guardian, representative, and person
obtaining informed consent) must print their own name, sign and write the date of signature.

Instructions: For obtaining signatures directly from subjects.

Signature of Subject

By signing this consent form, you indicate that you voluntarily choose to be in this research and agree to
allow your information to be used and shared as described above.

___________________________ __________ ________________

Signature of Subject Date Printed Name

Instructions: For parent(s) or guardian(s) signature(s) if child subjects enrolled.

Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian for Child

By signing this consent form, you indicate that you permit your child to be in this research and agree to
allow your child’s information to be used and shared as described above.

_____________________________________________
Printed name of child

___________________________ __________ ______ ________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date Time Printed Name

Parent
Individual legally authorized to consent to the child’s general medical care. (See note below.)

Note: Investigators are to ensure that individuals who are not parents can demonstrate their legal authority to
consent to the child’s general medical care. Contact legal counsel if any questions arise.

Instructions: If required by the IRB, add a second parent signature line.

___________________________ __________ ________________

Signature of 2nd Parent or Guardian Date Printed Name

If signature of second parent not obtained, indicate why: (select one)

Second parent is deceased
Second parent is unknown
Second parent is incompetent
Second parent is not reasonably available (document reason in research record)
Only one parent has legal responsibility for the care and custody of the child

Instructions: If obtaining signature from legally authorized representative (court-appointed legal

guardian, health care power of attorney, or health care representative) for an adult subject.
 23

Subject’s Legally Authorized Representative

By signing below, you indicate that you give permission for the subject to be in this research and agree
to allow the subject’s information to be used and shared as described above.

_______________________________________________
Printed name of subject

______________________________ _________ ________________

Signature of Date Printed Name
Legally Authorized Representative

Check the applicable box below indicating authority to act for subject:
Court-appointed legal guardian
Health Care Power of Attorney
Health Care Representative: _________________________________________
Relationship to Subject

Instructions: Include this section when assent of children or of decisionally-impaired adult subjects will be
obtained. Generally, assent should be sought from age-appropriate and developmentally capable children
(about age 7 years and older) unless omission is justified in the protocol and approved by the IRB.

ASSENT FOR RESEARCH

The research study has been explained to you. You have had a chance to ask questions to help you
understand what will happen in this research. You Do Not have to be in the research study. If you agree to
participate and later change your mind, you can tell the researchers, and the research will be stopped.

You have decided: (Initial one) ___ To take part in the research.
___NOT to take part in the research.

___________________________ __________ __________________

Signature of Subject Date Printed Name

OR

Assent not obtained because the capability of the subject is so limited that the subject cannot
reasonably be consulted.

Instructions: Include the following signature line if your protocol or protocol site addendum indicates
the “short form” consent process will be used to obtain and document informed consent of subjects
who speak limited English. An impartial witness who is not affiliated with the research must be present for
the consent discussion and sign the following statement. For more information, see the Investigator
manual available in the CATS IRB Library.
 24

Witness to Consent for Limited English-Speaking Subjects (Using a “Short Form” written in the subject’s
own language)
Witness Statement: As someone who understands both English and the language spoken by the subject or
subject representative, your signature indicates that the English version of the consent form was presented
orally in the language of the subject or subject representative, and that the subject or subject
representative was given the opportunity to ask questions.

_______________________ __________ ____________________

Witness Signature Date Printed Name

Instructions: Include the following signature line when you anticipate enrolling subjects who cannot
read or write in any language. An impartial witness who is not affiliated with the research must be present
for the consent discussion and sign the following statement.
Witness to Consent of Subjects Who Cannot Read or Write

Witness Statement: Your signature indicates that you were present during the informed consent discussion
of this research for the above named subject, that the information in the consent form and any other
written information was presented orally to the subject or subject representative, that he/she was given
the opportunity to ask questions, that the informed consent decision was freely made by the subject or
subject representative who indicated consent for participation by (check the box as applicable):
Making a mark
Other means: ____________________________________________________
(fill in above)

_______________________ __________ ____________________

Witness Signature Date Printed Name

Instructions: Use the following text only for optional parts of the research, e.g., storage of leftover tissue for
future research, storage of photos and/or video recordings, optional sub-studies, etc. For each optional part
of the study include statements for subjects to initial regarding their decision about participating in this
optional part of the study.

Optional part(s) of the study

In addition to the main part of the research study, there is another part of the research. You can be in
the main part of the research without agreeing to be in this optional part.

{Add information about the optional part(s) of the study.}

{Add option statements for subjects to initial to indicate their decision about participating in the optional
part(s) of the study.}
You should initial below to indicate what you want regarding the <<list the optional part(s) of the
study>>.
a. <<Option statement 1>>.
______ Yes _____ No
 25

b. <<Option statement 2>>.

______ Yes _____ No

{For research involving optional storage of tissue for future research}

Optional Storage of Tissue for Future Research
In the main part of this study, we are collecting <<list tissue and/or blood and/or cells>> from you. If you
agree, the <<indicate researchers and/or sponsor>> would like to store leftover sample(s) for future
research.
 These future studies may be helpful in understanding <<list disease(s)/condition(s)>>.
 It is unlikely that these studies will have a direct benefit to you.
 Neither your doctor nor you will receive results of these future research tests, nor will the results be
put in your health record.
 Sometimes tissue is used for genetic research about diseases that are passed on in families. Even if
your sample(s) <<is/are>> used for this kind of research, the results will not be put in your health
record.

{For linked samples} Your leftover samples will be labeled with <<list all identifiers that apply: “a code
number”, “your initials”, etc. >>.
 These samples will be stored <<describe how the samples will be secured>>.
 The length of time they will be used is unknown.
 You will be free to change your mind at any time.
 You should contact principal investigator if you wish to withdraw your permission for your <<list
tissue and/or blood and/or cells>> to be used for future research. Any unused <<list tissue and/or
blood and/or cells>> will be destroyed and not used for future research studies.

{For unlinked samples} Your samples will not be labeled with any of your personal information, such as your
name or a code number. They will be available for use in future research studies indefinitely and cannot be
removed due to the inability to identify them.

You should initial below to indicate what you want regarding the storage of your leftover <<list tissue
and/or blood and/or cells>> for future research studies.

a. Your sample[s] may be stored and used for future research studies to learn about, <<describe
potential future research uses>>.
______ Yes _____ No

c. Your sample[s] may be shared with other investigators/groups without any identifying information.
______ Yes _____ No

{For research involving optional storage of photos and/or video recordings for future research}
Optional Storage of Video Recordings for Future Research
In the main part of this study, we are collecting << indicate photos and/or video recordings>> that contain
identifiable information from you. If you agree, the researchers would like to maintain these << indicate
photos and/or video recordings>> for future research or to be used in publications or at presentations.
 Any future studies may be helpful in understanding <<provide an explanation>>.
 It is unlikely that any future studies will have a direct benefit to you.
 26

Your << indicate photos and/or video recordings>> will be labeled with <<list all identifiers that apply: “a code
number”, “your initials”, etc. >>.
 These recordings will be stored <<describe how the recordings will be secured>>.
 The length of time they will be used is unknown <<OR>> the recordings will be kept for <<indicate how
long>>.
 You will be free to change your mind at any time.
 You should contact principal investigator if you wish to withdraw your permission for your
recordings to be used for future research or publicly. The recordings will then be destroyed and not
used for future research studies or shown publicly.

You should initial below to indicate what you want regarding the storage your << indicate photos and/or
video recordings>> for future research studies.

a. Your identifiable << indicate photos and/or video recordings>> may be stored and used for future
research studies to learn about, <<describe potential future research uses>>.
______ Yes _____ No

b. Your identifiable << indicate photos and/or video recordings>> may be shared publicly at
presentations or in publications.
______ Yes _____ No

Signature of Person Obtaining Informed Consent

Your signature below means that you have explained the optional part(s) to the research to the subject
or subject representative and have answered any questions the subject or subject representative has
about the research.

______________________________ _________ ________________

Signature of person who explained this research Date Printed Name

Signature of Person Giving Informed Consent

Instructions: Follow the signature format provided above for the main part of the research study. The
persons signing the informed consent form (subject, parent/guardian, representative, and person
obtaining informed consent) must print their own name, sign and write the date of signature.

Signature of Subject

By signing below, you indicate that you have read the information written above and have indicated your
choices for the optional part(s) of the research study.

___________________________ __________ ________________

Signature of Subject Date Printed Name

Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian for Child

 27

By signing this consent form, you indicate that you have read the information written above and have
indicated your choices for the optional part(s) of the research study.

___________________________ __________ ________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date Printed Name
Parent
Individual legally authorized to consent to the child’s general medical care. (See note below.)

Note: Investigators are to ensure that individuals who are not parents can demonstrate their legal authority to
consent to the child’s general medical care. Contact legal counsel if any questions arise.

Instructions: If required by the IRB, add a second parent signature line.

___________________________ __________ ________________

Signature of 2nd Parent or Guardian Date Printed Name
If signature of second parent not obtained, indicate why: (select one)
Second parent is deceased
Second parent is unknown
Second parent is incompetent
Second parent is not reasonably available (document reason in research record)
Only one parent has legal responsibility for the care and custody of the child

Subject’s Legally Authorized Representative

By signing below, you indicate that you have read the information written above and have indicated
your choices for the optional part(s) of the research study.

______________________________ _________ ________________

Signature of Date Printed Name
Legally Authorized Representative

Check the applicable box below indicating authority to act for subject:
Court-appointed legal guardian
Health Care Power of Attorney
Health Care Representative: _________________________________________
Relationship to Subject

ASSENT FOR RESEARCH

The optional part(s) of the research study has been explained to you. You have had a chance to ask
questions to help you understand what will happen. You Do Not have to be in the optional part(s) of the
research study. If you agree to participate and later change your mind, you can tell the researchers, and the
optional part(s) of the research will be stopped.

You have decided: (Initial one) ___ To take part in the optional parts of the research.

___NOT to take part in the optional parts of the research.

 28

___________________________ __________ ___________________

Signature of Subject Date Printed Name
OR

Assent not obtained because the capability of the subject is so limited that the subject cannot
reasonably be consulted.

Witness to Consent for Limited English-Speaking Subjects (Using a “Short Form” written in the subject’s
own language)
Witness Statement: As someone who understands both English and the language spoken by the subject {or
subject representative}, your signature indicates that the English version of the optional part of the consent
form was presented orally in the language of the subject or subject representative, and that the subject or
subject representative was given the opportunity to ask questions.

_______________________ __________ ____________________

Witness Signature Date Printed Name

Witness to Consent of Subjects Who Cannot Read or Write

Witness Statement: Your signature indicates that you were present during the informed consent discussion
of the optional part of the research for the above named subject, that the information in the consent form
and any other written information was presented orally to the subject or subject representative, that
he/she was given the opportunity to ask questions, that the informed consent decision was freely made by
the subject or subject representative who indicated his/her consent and authorization for participation by
(check the box as applicable):
Making a mark
Other means: ____________________________________________________
(fill in above)

_______________________ __________ ____________________

Witness Signature Date Printed Name