Investigation of families’ leisure activities and use of green space during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions

Abstract

This study aims to explore families’ leisure activities, use of urban green space (UGS) during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, outdoor recreation constraints, and the relationship between their demographic characteristics and their leisure activity participation and use of UGS. A total of 406 parents with children aged 0-8 years participated in the study. The study used the survey to collect the data needed to answer the research questions. The data collecting tools were the Family Leisure Activity Profile Scale, Outdoor Recreation Constraints Scale, and Use of Urban Green Space During COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions Scale. Analysis of the parents’ reports showed that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the activities that take place outside the home environment. There was a weak positive correlation relationship between participation in leisure activities and education level and the other parent’s education level but no significant relationship between participation in leisure activities and family income level. Concerning use of USG, the study found that most of the participants claimed that although they visited green areas during the restrictions, they generally had insufficient access to UGS. There was a significant positive relationship between frequency of UGS visits and education level, other parent’s education level, and income level. Also, a significant negative correlation was found between frequency of visits and distance. The results of this study are important for identifying and providing support services in both family and cultural contexts as they provide a framework for families’ leisure activities and green space access and use.