Abstract

Free time and vacations are one of the most important and meaningful events in people's lives. Although industrialization was expected to result in an increase in free time, in the U.S., the most industrialized nation, more than 1 in 3 Americans say they always feel rushed. The average American works 1,777 hours per year, and the number of working hours are increasing as number of vacation hours are decreasing. Studies indicate that women and minorities have even less free time and fewer days off. This lack of free time negatively influences the health and well-being of a significant percentage of the population. This presentation focuses on a discussion of gender and cultural factors affecting this crisis.