The relationship between free time and students' perception of work

Abstract

Leisure and work experience are progressively gaining in importance, as more youths are increasingly engaging in both activities. This research analyses the relationship between the way free time is spent, including leisure and work experience, and career preference, career decidedness, and other career related attitudes. Leisure can be divided into two major umbrella terms: active, such as practising sport, and participating in youth groups activities; and passive leisure time, which includes watching TV, and playing PlayStation games. This study examines whether those students who prefer active leisure time have a healthier career orientation when compared to those who have predominantly passive leisure time. It seeks to understand if one's leisure affects one's outlook and perspective on future careers. Work experience can be of various types, including part-time work, summer work and even working with relatives. The research also seeks to explore whether students who already have a working experience have higher career aspirations and perception than their non-working peers. The results of the research are discussed with the aim of providing ideas and suggestions in order to enhance Malta's career guidance provision.