Open Access News Mental Health Why are hobbies so important, and why are women being left out of them? September 26, 2024 image: ©South_agency | iStock Here, we explore why women are missing out on the physical and mental benefits of engaging in hobbies and why, in our modern society, female-specific hobbies are seen as less worthwhile than men’s For women throughout history, hobbies have served as a source of solace, creativity, and personal fulfilment, so why don’t modern women have the time to spend on them, and why is there a gender gap when we examine hobby rates between men and women? Despite the myriad benefits of hobbies, research suggests a gendered disparity in their pursuit. While hobbies can offer personal fulfilment, stress relief, and social connections, societal expectations and cultural norms often influence the types of activities men and women engage in. This exploration delves into the reasons behind this gender gap and examines the potential implications for individuals and society as a whole.
Whether it’s painting, gardening, sports, writing, or dancing, hobbies have the power to nurture our souls and ignite our passions. However, numerous studies have shown that there is a gendered gap in men’s and women’s ability to pursue hobbies and a disparity in the hobbies that each gender pursues. How can marriage affect women and their hobbies? According to the Office for National Statistics, women carry out an average of 60% more unpaid work than men .
