A Sociological Study of Leisure and Gender Equality in College Teachers of Ahmedabad City
This is an empirical study of 150 college teachers in Ahmedabad. The main objective of this paper is to show the leisure activities of educated men and women. The study explores equal access and opportunities in the field of education. There is no gender bias for college teachers regarding their qualifications, salary, and work. Compensation and surplus energy relaxation theories of leisure are used in this study.
There are various factors for unequal leisure opportunities for men and women. Unequal leisure issue is rooted in social and cultural norms, work-life balance, workload, and family responsibilities.
On the other side, various supportive factors promote gender just leisure for women. The study also explores how the governments of India and Gujarat support gender equality and empowerment of women for a gender-just society in the field of higher education.
It is found that the new education policy supports gender-inclusive development but no leisure time at workplace. In the family, there are constraints but their income and family environment support them for gender-equal leisure activities. The study indicates a significant association between education, income, job, etc. and happiness and satisfaction in life.
There are some recommendations to enhance Gender Equality in Leisure for college teachers: Work-Life balance policies, gender-sensitive infrastructure, awareness campaigns and encouraging mentorship programs that empower women to prioritize personal development, including leisure activities outside of work and family responsibilities. These factors can help promote greater gender equality in leisure for college teachers (in Ahmedabad), improving their overall well-being and satisfaction with life beyond their academic careers.