A Quantitative Analysis on Leisure Participation of Turkish Seafarers by Structural Equation Modeling

Abstract

Social isolation of the seafarers -which induces human factor in marine accidents -is an important problem driver in the ship environment. Emotional competencies and satisfaction with life are able to reduce effects of social isolation. Ordinary participation in leisure activities can enhance individual emotional intelligence, provide physical and mental health as well as an improved social interaction and produce life satisfaction. The aim of this study is to classify seafarers based on their leisure participation level, and to compare them each other in terms of leisure satisfaction, life satisfaction and emotional intelligence by structural equation modeling. Providing leisure facilities for seafarers and supporting them to join leisure activates as serious participants can eliminate negative effects of social isolation by enhancing the emotional intelligence and producing life satisfaction.

Quest for life satisfaction in the sea of loneliness

“…This causes a discrepancy between their personal relationships and their social environment [20] leading to heightened feelings of loneliness. The likelihood of such feelings increases due to prolonged absence from home or the loss of a significant other [21]. Additionally, the crew members come from different cultures, rigidly hierarchical ranks and with different linguistic skills.…”