IRL Treasure Hunting: Is the Real Treasure the Beer We Find Along the Way?

• In Event: Substance Use in the Contemporary U.S.: Antecedents and Consequences Contextualized

Abstract

Perhaps with good reason, criminologists have failed to examine the nexus between criminology and the social phenomena, and behavioral correlates, of amateur treasure hunting. On the other hand, limited evidence does seem to suggest that many of the characteristics associated with treasure hunting might be applicable to criminology and deviance scholars. To address this gap, we will draw from data collected from real life treasure hunters seeking out the over $1,000,000 that Justin Posey has hidden somewhere in the western United States in a chest. Specifically, we will examine what motivates people to hunt for treasure IRL (in real life). We will code our interviews to explore the extent to what, if any, of these narratives focus on alcohol use as part of the treasure hunting experience. Given the low chance that any single person will find the hidden treasure, we wonder if social connections – and the substance use that comes with forging connections, connecting with nature, and community building – are the real “treasure” are along.

Authors

• Thomas Mowen, Bowling Green State University

• Laura Sanchez, Bowling Green State University