Citation

Petrass LA, Blitvich JD, Finch CF. Int. J. Aquatic Res. Educ. 2011; 5(2): 199-209.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Bowling Green State University)

DOI

10.25035/ijare.05.02.07

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examined self-reported supervisory behaviours of caregivers at beaches and ascertained whether self-reported supervision reflects observed behaviour. Observations were conducted of caregiver/child pairs at 18 Australian beaches, with questionnaires subsequently completed by caregivers. Caregivers identified visual contact as essential for close supervision and proximity a key determinant in distinguishing supervision and close supervision. Supervisory behaviour was associated with child age, whilst lifeguard patrol had no effect on supervision. All supervision statements from the PSAPQ-BEACH were associated with supervision. Only three statements were significant independent predictors of supervision. Comparisons suggest caregivers' self-reported supervisory behaviour reflects actual supervision. As this is the first study of its kind, it is essential that further prospective research using mixed-method approaches build on this information.

Language: en