Leisure in the Turkish Context: A Preliminary Account

Abstract

The literature on leisure has been dominated by Western examples until recently. Some recent accounts of non-Western cases provide a different and richer context for understanding leisure. This study i s an attempt to reveal the nature and development of leisure in the Turkish context. The historical background of leisure in Turkish society i s briefly presented as on aid to understanding the current situation better. The findings of recent research on time use by Turkish people are also presented with a particular focus on leisure patterns. The data were collected through a field survey in Ankara, the capital city. The results indicate that leisure patterns vary along with settlement type and socio-demographic characteristics.

Leisure activity preferences and constraints: perspectives from Turkey

“…For example, research is consistent that less physically active recreation is associated with lower socio-economic status (US Department of Health and Human Services, 1996). Exploratory research in Turkey also confirmed this US finding (Erkip, 2009). Erkip found that physical activity as leisure was mainly for Turkish people with high incomes and more education.…”

“…Leisure in Turkey appears to have been traditionally considered simply passing time or having empty time without concern for doing particular activities unless related to sports. Erkip (2009) and Aydin (2009) also noted that Turkish perspectives on leisure vary greatly with traditional patterns observed in rural areas and squatter settlements in suburban areas when contrasted to urban areas. Urban areas have typically adopted more Western ways of embodying work and leisure.…”

“…Researchers have found, in addition, that the types of leisure activities undertaken by most Turkish people are passive (Erkip, 2009;Gürbüz et al, 2010;Hacıoğlu et al, 2005). A report by OECD (2009) indicated that 40% of leisure among Turkish people included using the TV or radio at home contrasted to 2% who said they participated in sports.…”

“…Similarly, leisure in Turkey is gendered based on previous research [e.g., Erkip, 2009;Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), 2009;Tekin, 2010]. Although equal rights for men and women are the policy, many women experience leisure differently than men due to the polarization between Islamic cultural traditions and the secular philosophy (Koca et al, 2009).…”

“…This literature has addressed general populations as well as convenience samples of university students. Erkip (2009) especially suggested that cultural contexts are imperative for exploring the experience of time as it relates to leisure meanings and constraints among different demographic groups. What individuals choose to do with their free time and how much time they perceive they have for leisure activities is changing especially concerning social stratification and socio-economic levels in Turkey (Aydin, 2009).…”