A qualitative analysis of factors that influence cultural participation in Mexico: implications of individual, social, and contextual factors

Abstract

Using qualitative data from 247 semi-structured interviews in four states (Mexico City, Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, and the State of Mexico) (N=247), this study examines perceptions of factors that influence cultural participation in Mexico, specifically in terms of cultural attendance. Through a thematic-analysis approach, we identify 127 thematic units, which were organized into 22 distinctive themes that show perceptions of promoters and inhibitors of cultural participation. Themes emerging from this study suggest that individual (e.g., economic resources, time, and taste), social (i.e., family and companionship), and contextual attributes (e.g., distance, cultural offering, public security, and public transport) are key in influencing cultural participation. In comparison to national level conditions, the state level, in this sample, was not indicated as relevant in influencing attendance. Observations regarding promoters and inhibitors of cultural participation have the potential to inform the development of policy, and programming decisions that promote attendance and, therefore, cultural participation in Mexico.