Using the Capabilities-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) System to Conceptualize the Legalization of Sunday Migratory Game Bird Hunting

Authors

Elena C. Rubino, Division of Agriculture, Arkansas Forest Resources Center, University of Arkansas System; College of Forestry, Agriculture, and Natural Resources, University of Arkansas at MonticelloFollow
Christopher Serenari, Department of Biology, Texas State University

Abstract

Recent wildlife agency efforts aimed at hunter recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) are examples of behavior change interventions. Therefore, these R3 programs and policies should be strategically designed to meet hunters’ goals and motivations. We analyzed survey responses (n=808) from North Carolina resident migratory bird hunters regarding potential Sunday hunting legalization to serve as an illustrative case demonstrating how the capabilities-opportunity-motivation-behavior (COM-B) system can be used to conceptualize and more effectively test potential hunter behavior changes prompted by debated R3 strategies. Findings provide decision-makers and land managers with an understanding of the potential implications of migratory game bird Sunday hunting legalization, which offers insights into the types of interventions that may be most effective for increasing hunter participation.

Recommended Citation

Rubino, Elena, and Christopher Serenari. 2022. "Using the Capabilities-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) System to Conceptualize the Legalization of Sunday Migratory Game Bird Hunting." Journal of Rural Social Sciences, 37(3): Article 2. Available at: https://egrove.olemiss.edu/jrss/vol37/iss3/2

Publication Date

9-6-2022