Following the guideline: an investigation into the information-seeking behaviors of “serious leisure” technical cave divers

Abstract

Purpose This research identifies information-seeking behaviors of cave divers, and from where they gather information before, during and after a dive. An investigation was conducted into the information grounds held by cave divers: where they go to seek or exchange information. Information becomes a critical part of the indispensable equipment needed for safe cave diving, where accurate information-sharing and gathering can mean the difference between life and death. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was taken, wherein 20 participants were interviewed virtually over Microsoft Teams using the Information World Mapping technique and semi-structured open-ended questions. Verbatim clean transcriptions and participant maps were coded using thematic content analysis. Findings Participant data suggest cave divers may be intentionally restrictive in their information-sharing behaviors, choosing vetted contacts willing to reciprocate information exchanges. Cave divers use targeted information-seeking techniques to answer specific queries. During a dive, cave divers gain information in an experiential fashion and through embodied information gathering. Individuals avoid triggers that may “informationally overwhelm” them during the cave dive, staying aware and hyper-vigilant. Cave divers view information as critical to a safety-oriented practice grounded in risk analysis. Originality/value As there is a prominent gap in the literature surrounding the information-seeking behaviors of cave divers and of extreme sport enthusiasts more broadly, this research helped to fill that gap. This research provides an additional dimension to understanding cave diving and extends research on sport and information-seeking behavior more broadly.