The Technological Transformation of Leisure

Abstract

There is a large body of literature examining the role of communication technologies in the shaping of contemporary society. One area that has not been sufficiently considered in the literature is the influence of technology on the organization and experience of leisure. Historically, there has always been a relationship between technology and leisure, but the increasing use of the Internet and computer gaming technology during leisure time is facilitating a transformation in contemporary leisure activity and has relevance for themes in both leisure and Internet research. This article presents a brief examination of the historical relationship between technology and leisure, before examining the implications of technological change for themes in leisure and Internet research. Examined with reference to computer technology and the use of the Internet are (a) activity, place, and meaning; (b) leisure freedom and constraint; (c) deviant leisure; and (d) leisure and health.