Expectations of Medical School Students for Leisure Time Activities

Objective: This study aimed to examine the expectations of medical students towards leisure time activities, reasons for participation, barriers they face, and their attitudes towards leisure time management within the framework of semester differences. Material and Method: Suleyman Demirel University Faculty of Medicine students were included in the study on a voluntary basis. Participants were evaluated using a descriptive data form, the Leisure Time Management Scale, the Leisure Time Facilitators Scale, and the Leisure Time Barriers Scale. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: 458 students participated in the study. Participation in social activities was the lowest in class 2 (p=0.008). The reasons for participation were having fun, getting away from stress, and socializing, while the reasons for not participating were the intensity of the course and the incompatibility of activity times. Participants' scores on the Scales of Leisure Time Management, Leisure Time Facilitators, and Leisure Time Barriers show class differences. Among the activities requested by students, music/concerts, social excursion programs, and hobby workshops were the most requested. These findings suggest that students have different attitudes towards social activities and leisure time management. Conclusions: Medical students' expectations for leisure time activities change as the academic class progresses; intensive academic programs and structural barriers limit participation in social activities. These findings provide clues to educational administrators in terms of developing students' leisure time management strategies and supporting their psychosocial well-being.