Global influence and local uniqueness: the case of adolescent leisure in Hong Kong

Abstract

This paper examines the cognitive, affective and behavioral domains of leisure of Hong Kong adolescents. Based on data gathered through a recent study and secondary data from previous studies on leisure of school students, the paper presents the main characteristics and recent trends of adolescent leisure. It further examines the attitudes of these young people towards leisure and leisure education. Results indicate the popularity of expressive and social activities as well as the increase in use of electronic media and information and telecommunication technology. This is a similar pattern to leisure participation patterns of youth in other countries. Hong Kong adolescents perceive the role of leisure as time free from obligations, which is aimed for relaxation and enjoyment. The data highlight two specific features to leisure of Hong Kong adolescents. These are the significant role of family in leisure companionship and the popularity of some instrumental and intellectual activities such as cultivation of specific hobbies and going to public libraries. Recommendations are made to further examine the role of information and telecommunication technology in the adolescents' lives and to utilize the schools settings and programs for implementing the process of leisure education while involving the family as a socialisation agent for leisure.

Keywords:

• adolescents
• leisure participation
• leisure companions
• leisure education
• mass media
• socialization