Field Study 1247
Subject: Escalation of Difficulty
Activity Classification: Recreational
Observation:
Golf is commonly described and practiced as a recreational activity.
Secondary Observation:
Despite this classification, increased difficulty in the conditions of play is routinely introduced, celebrated, and defended, even when no functional improvement is observed.
Assessment:
In recreational contexts, increased difficulty in the playing environment does not function as an enhancement. It's effects are not-proportionally distributed across skill levels.
Clarification:
Making an activity more difficult does not make it more effective.
It only makes it more difficult.
Finding:
No evidence was observed indicating that increased difficulty improves enjoyment, fairness, or resolution.
Conclusion:
Escalation of difficulty persists without clear benefit.
Participation continues regardless.
Filed for the record.
If increased difficulty does not function as an enhancement, what function does it serve?
These materials reflect field notes, behavioral observations, and informal conclusions derived from prolonged exposure to golfers and golf culture.
Views expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the GSTPA, the GSTPA Tour, or Sham Golf Media LLC.