Üniversite yaşaminda serbest zaman aktiviteleri: Öğrenci tercihleri ve ilgilenim düzeyleri

This study analyzes university students' leisure choices and their engagement in various recreational activities, emphasizing the influence of socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, and academic field on their participation. A survey of 368 students from Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University was executed, and the gathered data were examined by descriptive statistics and correlation tests. The results indicated that the predominant age group of respondents was 20–24 years, with females constituting 56.3% of the overall sample. The research highlighted physical activity, social connections, and rest as the predominant leisure pastimes among students. A considerable percentage of students (56.8%) indicated participating in physical activities sporadically, demonstrating a distinct preference for group activities rather than individual pursuits. Subsequent analysis revealed that socio-demographic factors, including student club membership and the frequency of physical activity participation, significantly impacted students' choices, highlighting the intricate relationship between personal attributes and environmental contexts in influencing leisure behavior. The study emphasized that students' access to and perceptions of campus leisure areas significantly impacted their involvement rates, indicating that the availability and quality of facilities directly affect engagement levels. Moreover, disparities were noted in the favored activities among various demographic groups, suggesting that age, gender, and faculty affiliation substantially influence leisure preferences and the overall university experience. These insights are essential for university administrators and legislators, as they highlight the necessity of developing and executing inclusive and flexible leisure programs that address the varied requirements of the student population. By providing diverse recreational options and ensuring accessibility, universities can support the mental and physical well-being of students while also fostering social connections and community development, which are essential for academic and personal growth. This study enhances the understanding of leisure behavior among university students and offers a framework for creating strategic interventions to foster a balanced and rewarding campus experience.