The Qualitative Study on The Formation of Self-Identity in Serious Leisure Participants

The purpose of this study was to explore the formation of self-identity in serious leisure participants through the phenomenological research in order to examine their perspectives on the leisure activity and the meaning of their experiences in the process of enjoying leisure activities. A total of 6 participants who enjoy serious leisure activities were selected using the snowball sampling method, and in-depth interview and participant observations were conducted over three months to collect and analyze data. The collected data were coded, repeatedly reviewed, and finally organized and categorized. In the second stage, the context and meaning of the identified topics and phenomena were analyzed to derive the results. The results were as follows: Self-direction and Breaking routines, Positive emotions and Psychological relaxation, Social interaction and Belongingness, and Self-reflection and Redefinition of life values. It is believed that it will be possible to contribute to the establishment of measures to enhance the value of serious leisure, as well as forming the self-identity through various leisure activities and experiences as serious leisure.