The effects of participation of teachers working in the institutions of the Ministry of National Education in recreational activities on happiness and quality of life (Düzce example)

THE EFFECT OF PARTICIPATION OF TEACHERS WORKING IN THE INSTITUTIONS OF THE MINISTRY OF NATIONAL EDUCATION IN RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ON HAPPINESS AND QUALITY OF LIFE (DÜZCE EXAMPLE) Şule Nur ÇAPAKLI Düzce University Graduate School, Department of Ecotourism Master's Thesis Supervisor: Assoc. Doç. Dr. Serir UZUN July 2025, 84 pages In today's modern life, the rapid development of technology, along with increasing urbanization and industrialization, has led to machines replacing human labor, thereby providing individuals with more leisure time. In line with these developments, the efficient use of leisure time and participation in recreational activities have gained importance. It is well known that time spent on recreational activities has positive effects on individuals' psychological and physical well-being and plays a significant role in enhancing happiness and personal productivity. On the other hand, the inefficient use or complete waste of leisure time may negatively impact individuals' mental state. After fulfilling their basic life responsibilities, individuals can improve their quality of life by engaging in activities that help them relax, enjoy themselves, and rejuvenate. However, low participation levels in such activities may result in a decrease in individuals' happiness. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of recreational activities participated in by teachers—who are exposed to stress, fatigue, and routine workload in their professional lives—on their happiness and quality of life. Within the scope of the research, a survey was conducted with a total of 454 teachers, and the collected data were analyzed using the SPSS 22.0 software. According to the analysis results, statistically significant differences were found (p<0.05) between the frequency of participation in recreational activities and variables such as participants' age, marital status, number of children, family type, educational background, years of experience in teaching, number of years working in Düzce, weekend work status, and income level. Furthermore, it was observed that teachers' participation in recreational activities had a positive effect on both their happiness and quality of life. Regression analysis revealed a significant and positive relationship between happiness and quality of life; as happiness levels increased, so did quality of life, while lower happiness levels were associated with a decline in quality of life. Keywords: Leisure time, Teacher, Happiness, Recreation, Quality of life