Community Perception Regarding Factor Influencing Leisure Pursuits (A Case Study of District Okara)

Abstract

The purpose of this cross-sectional survey was to find the factors which affect the leisure pursuits in a Pakistani community. The researchers assumed there were significant social and cultural factors affecting the participation in recreational activities. Self-designed questionnaire was used for surveying 200 young adults (20-30 years) of Okara, Pakistan by using a convenience sample. The data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentage. The results indicated that there was a high level of recognition of the leisure benefits, with 96.3% saying physical activity in leisure was essential and 95.4% saying that the best use of free time was recreational activities. Only 58.3% saw religious issues as a barrier, while 78.7% considered recreation as a basic need. Lack of facilities (81.5%), lack of time (77.8%) and limited awareness (78.7%) were the most reported challenges. These results confirm the hypothesis, suggesting social/cultural barriers can be a factor in participation. The authors find it important to raise awareness about recreational values and to combat time and resource limitations to help increase engagement.