Leisure Activities of Young People as a Predictor of Life Satisfaction

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine to what extent leisure activities affect life
satisfaction in young people. 670 students attending the University of Zagreb
(Croatia) took part in the study, out of which 209 (31.2%) were males and 461
were females (68.8%). The largest number of students stated they have 2-3 hours
of leisure time per day (n = 210; 31.3%), while the lowest number of students
stated they have up to 1 hour of leisure time per day. The respondents filled in a
survey which consisted of 2 parts: The Leisure Time Questionnaire and The
Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener et al., 1985). For the purpose of this study and
based on the relevant literature, The Leisure Time Questionnaire was designed in
which 6 composite variables were formed (Cultural activities, Relaxing activities,
Electronic media and the Internet, Useful activities, Sports, Socializing and going
out). According to the findings, the respondents tend to spend most of their leisure
time in Relaxing activities, and the minimum of their time engaging in Cultural
activities. Out of all 6 composite variables relating to young people’s leisure
activities, only one, Socializing and going out, has proved to be a statistically
significant predictor of life satisfaction in young people.