Exploring the Relationship Between Leisure Context Choices, Socioeconomic Status, and Value Orientations

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationship between leisure context choices, socioeconomic status (SES), and value orientations. Adopting an original analytical perspective, it highlights how structural conditions and individual values interact to shape leisure participation. Through theoretical synthesis and illustrative examples from Taiwan, Nordic countries, and the United States, this paper proposes a multidimensional framework to explain variations in leisure behavior. Findings from the conceptual model suggest that higher-SES individuals gravitate toward leisure rich in cultural capital, while lower-SES groups often rely on public or low-cost forms of leisure. At the same time, value orientations—whether healthfocused, hedonic, cultural, or materialistic—can further redirect choices even under similar SES conditions. This work contributes to leisure studies by advancing a new explanatory model and offers practical implications for policymakers seeking to reduce inequality in leisure access.