Buzz about bees: Serious leisure as a beneficial tool for veterans transitioning into post-service: A mixed methods study

Abstract

After retirement, veterans experience a loss of identity, support, and community (Duvall & Kaplan 2013; Duval & Kaplan, 2014; Caddick & Smith, 2014; Bennett et al., 2014). Some researchers have begun to look at how recreation can be used to help veterans transition into civilian life with potential promising results (Vella, Milligan & Bennett, 2013; Laskowski, 1991). However, more research needs to be done on how the potential benefits of SL, more specifically beekeeping as SL, for veterans can help with transitioning in retirement. This research was able to confirm that beekeeping through the Hives for Heroes Network can be a tool for veterans during the transition process. The quantitative strand of this research confirmed that participants were identifying with a SLP before beginning work as members of the Hives for Heroes Network and this identification was strengthened as their participation continued. Additionally, the qualitative strand showed that participants of the focus groups expressed positive changes in community, support, and identity. Finally, by integrating the data a more complete picture of the participant experience was created. This picture shows that veterans working through their transition may benefit from beekeeping as a serious leisure pursuit in developing a serious leisure pursuit.