John Dattilo

John Dattilo is a Professor in the Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management at Pennsylvania State University. His work focuses on leisure studies, gerontology, and mental health, particularly examining how leisure activities impact loneliness, well-being, and social inclusion across different populations including older adults, university students, and individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Research Interests

• Leisure education and its impact on mental health
• Loneliness reduction through structured activities
• Role of digital leisure in modern society
• Leisure therapy for older adults and special populations
• Connections between social support and purpose in life
• Flow experiences in recreational contexts

Scientific Awards

• Recognized with national awards in Recreation, Park and Tourism Management (2025)

Recent publications highlight his expertise in analyzing leisure behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic, yoga's impact on women's health, and technology's role in elder care. His research spans both theoretical and applied approaches, with emphasis on evidence-based interventions.