Adolescents’ Leisure Activities: Types of Social Networks and Specific Hobbies

Abstract

Previous findings from a broader study about adolescents’ leisure activities in Serbia show that few adolescents pursue hobbies, while online social networks (OSNs) usage is widespread. Results also suggest that two types of OSNs could be distinguished: (1) oriented towards personal communication and exchange (e-mail, Viber, WhatsApp, Skype, & Snapchat); (2) reflects presence in the public domain, and is used to provoke a reaction (YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook). This work aimed to determine if there are connections between certain hobbies (8 distinguished) and mentioned OSNs. On 17 items selected in the applied questionnaire, adolescents estimated how often they engage in specific hobbies and how active they are on mentioned OSNs. Results indicate that some hobbies do not require activity on OSNs at all, while some are connected to particular (types of) OSNs. Different types of OSNs, according to their capacity for personal exchange and public exposure and reaction, could be upholding for practicing different hobbies, especially graphic design and computerrelated activities. OSNs might also represent a supportive tool in practicing hobbies, concerning the nature of the specific hobbyrelated activity and purpose, mostly because hobbies and OSN activities are chosen following adolescents’ interests, abilities, knowledge, and resources.