Measuring Variability in Encounter Norms Among Scuba Divers and Snorkelers: An Application of the Potential for Conflict Index

The structural norm approach was combined with the Potential for Conflict Index (PCI₂) to examine differences in normative tolerances for varying levels of people at one time (PAOT) both within and between scuba divers and snorkelers. Data were obtained from scuba divers (n = 975) and snorkelers (n = 609) in the Florida keys. Each group evaluated their encounter norms for seeing 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and >25 scuba divers (and snorkelers) at one time on scales from “extremely unacceptable” to “extremely acceptable.” Both groups rated 0 in-group PAOT less positively than 5 PAOT, perhaps a function of safety. In general, however, as the number of scuba divers or snorkelers increased, mean acceptance decreased. Scuba divers could tolerate about 10 other divers or snorkelers. Snorkelers could tolerate more snorkelers (about 17) than divers (about 10). PCI₂ values suggested that there was greatest consensus that 25 or more PAOT was unacceptable and 5 PAOT was most acceptable. Combining the structural norm approach with PCI₂ facilitates understanding research findings and formulating management standards.