Piet, Kathleen Walker.

Using the assumptions of symbolic interactionism, this thesis examines the importance of place to the interaction of co-partner sex participants (also known as swingers). Using a modification of the various elements of place discussed by Denzin (1974), this examination of social interaction investigates the situational contexts that individuals are placed in. Building on Goffman (1959), Denzin (1974), and Lofland (1969), this exploratory research discusses how the physical setting which provides the conditions, the relationships which bind the participants, and the rules which shape alliances affect interaction. Data for this research was gathered through the distribution of questionnaires at three public swinger's clubs in South Florida. Results show that perceived level of involvement in the swinging community, frequency of swinging, gender, and education level produced statistically significant differences in swinging encounters.