Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.5673/sip.63.2.2
Sociological Analysis of the Quality of Life among Young People on the Island of Hvar: Challenges and Perspectives
Gorana Bandalović
orcid.org/0000-0003-0136-3690
; University of Split, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Sociology, Croatia
Klara Šimunović
; Zagreb School of Economics and Management, Croatia
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the quality of life of young people on the
island of Hvar. The research was conducted in 2022 using semi-structured interviews with a
sample of 30 participants. The analysis of the interviews revealed that most participants had
completed secondary education, whereas those with higher education faced employment challenges
in their fields due to a lack of job opportunities outside the tourism sector. The majority
were employed in tourism, mainly on a seasonal basis, and were generally satisfied with their
employment status. Leisure time patterns vary significantly between seasons: in winter, they
have too much free time, whereas in summer, they have too little free time. They expressed dissatisfaction
with available leisure activities, noting a lack of options for young people outside
the tourist season. They viewed tourism positively because of its earning potential but also
noted negative aspects such as rising living costs and the impact of party tourism. Although
they appreciated the island’s natural beauty and tranquility during the winter, they also missed
social interaction. The main reasons for leaving the island were related to limited access to
healthcare, shopping, and entertainment. Opinions about staying were divided: most participants
expressed a desire to remain due to their attachment to their home, work, and family,
whereas the most common reason for leaving was the shortage of employment opportunities
beyond tourism.
Keywords
quality of life; youth; island of Hvar; education; leisure time; employment; seasonal work; tourism
Hrčak ID:
338828
URI
Publication date:
30.10.2025.
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