Leisure's impact on different social groups

Leisure’s Impact on Different Social Groups

Age Groups

  • Younger age groups often engage in active and competitive leisure activities such as sports teams or clubs.
  • Middle-aged adults tend to take part in more family-oriented activities like picnics or theme parks, or activities that enhance their social circle.
  • Older adults, especially the retired audience, generally lean more towards passive leisure, such as reading and gardening.
  • Access to leisure is also influenced by school and work commitments, and older adults might have more free time to commit to leisure activities.

Socioeconomic Status (SES)

  • Leisure activities often require disposable income which can limit access for lower SES groups.
  • High SES groups may engage in ‘status’ leisure activities such as opera, golf, and international travel, perceived as ways of displaying their wealth and social standing.
  • Discrepancies exist regarding access to facilities relevant to leisure activities, where high SES groups normally have better access.

Gender

  • Traditionally, there are certain stereotyped activities associated with certain genders, like men involved in sporting activities and women in artistic ventures.
  • Females, particularly mothers, might have less access to leisure owing to household chores and caregiving responsibilities.

Ethnicity and Culture

  • Ethnic and cultural background heavily influence choice of leisure activities whether that revolves around culture, music, dance or food.
  • Minorities might face barriers related to language, discrimination, or lack of tailored leisure opportunities.

Disability

  • People with disabilities may face physical and attitudinal barriers preventing full participation in certain leisure activities.
  • Efforts are being made to implement inclusive leisure policies and practices, such as by providing disabled-friendly facilities and programs.

Each social group’s interaction with leisure can reveal underlying issues related to inequality, accessibility, inclusion, and representation. These need to be recognised and addressed in leisure provision and policy.