How work constrains leisure: New ideas and directions for interdisciplinary research

Abstract

In this commentary, we note the lack of emphasis on work-related factors in the leisure constraints literature. We highlight three work-related factors that we think warrant investigation as leisure constraints: (1) labor practices related to work scheduling, (2) organizational norms, and (3) work supervisors. We discuss relevant organizational psychology literatures and note that future research focusing on work-related factors could broaden knowledge about leisure constraints and illuminate new paths forward for improving employees’ leisure experiences. We emphasize that addressing these work-related constraints likely requires moving beyond individual-directed strategies and focusing on contextual factors (e.g., organizational policies and practices) that could be targeted to improve employees’ leisure experiences.

Keywords:

• Leisure constraints
• work schedules
• ideal worker norms
• supervisor support