The changing patterns of work and leisure: Revolutions in leisure behaviours

Abstract

The world is in the midst of an economic recession accompanied by an unemployment crisis. This paper aimed at identifying the broader shifts in society that are causing significant changes in the leisure patterns of South Africans. Implicit in this aim was determining how these changes impact on the meaning and value of work and leisure. The research design was qualitative. A comprehensive literature review was conducted on the issue. The information was classified into themes and analysed. Unstructured interviews with five currently practising recreationists as well as the author’s observations as a recreation practitioner and academic were relied upon to confirm certain behaviours and trends. A particular focus was given to the effect of new technologies. Whether individuals, social norms and public and commercial leisure delivery systems have embraced the new social order were questioned critically. The responsibility of the professional preparation systems and national policy frameworks in addressing leisure needs and changed lifestyles were examined with a view to recommending principles and policies that lead to balanced and healthy lifestyles in the modern day context.

Keywords: Work, leisure, unemployment, technology, trends, issues.