The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between leisure activity and leisure satisfaction of youths. In order to meet this purpose, the following research questions were analysed and these were: 1) relationship between demographic va...
The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between leisure activity and leisure satisfaction of youths. In order to meet this purpose, the following research questions were analysed and these were: 1) relationship between demographic variables and leisure satisfaction, 2) leisure activity participation and its impact on leisure satisfaction, 3) attitude to leisure and its impact on leisure satisfaction.
Leisure has the connotation of attitude, time, or activities that enable personal growth or development. Attempting to synthesize various approaches to leisure, Joffre Dumazedier proposed that leisure has three inseparable parts: relaxation, entertainment, and personal development. Leisure means sensitivity to the beauty and wonder of existence and to the potential splendor of the human personality. Leisure is a way of living and presupposes an attitude that is out of step with modern, productive industrial society, as well as the service and information economy that builds on industrialism. Leisure, in fact, can be an important component contributing to the daily well-being of an individual. Leisure activities may provide more opportunities for pleasure, hence increased life satisfaction.
The major findings obtained from this study were followings. First, demographic variables often studied and linked to life satisfaction and well-being include income, age, gender, employment, and education. The more education people receive, the more exposed they may be to different forms of leisure; hence, the greater the potential for diversity in their leisure choices. Second, there existed significant relationship between leisure participation and leisure satisfaction. That is, leisure participation facilitated the leisure satisfaction. Third, the leisure attitude is of great significance in determining the degree of satisfaction derived from any activity.
Youths will continue to seek leisure experiences for socialization, excitement, escape, and furthering educational and skill development. Leisure is something one achieves. One learns how to be leisurely, just as one learns how to play a musical instrument, to enjoy the natural world, or to think or to love. Most of the important events of one's life-insights, personal relationships, choices of careers, and delight in ourselves, our friends, and natural and artificial wonders-occur in leisure. Successful leisure is clearly a major contributor to a life well lived. Therefore, educational programs must offer opportunities for youths to learn how to enjoy leisure.