Self-Reported Supervisory Behavior and Belief vs. Actual Observations of Caregiver Behavior at Beaches

Authors

Lauren A. Petrass, University of BallaratFollow
Jennifer D. Blitvich, University of Ballarat
Caroline F. Finch, University of Ballarat

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.05.02.07

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.

Recommended Citation

Petrass, Lauren A.; Blitvich, Jennifer D.; and Finch, Caroline F. (2011) "Self-Reported Supervisory Behavior and Belief vs. Actual Observations of Caregiver Behavior at Beaches," International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education: Vol. 5: No. 2, Article 7.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.05.02.07
Available at: https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/ijare/vol5/iss2/7