Introduction: Participation in leisure activities is of great importance to individuals. Leisure activities can prevent the development of chronic diseases, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve thinking, learning, and contribute to better health, development, and general well-being. Students who are satisfied with their leisure time generally also have higher overall satisfaction with life. During leisure activities, individuals get to know themselves, improve their self-image, gain momentum for other activities in life, and have a positive effect on their mood. Purpose: The purpose of the diploma thesis is to investigate the satisfaction of students at the University of Ljubljana with their leisure time and their general satisfaction with life. Methods: A quantitative research approach was employed in the study. The participants, students at the University of Ljubljana, were divided into two groups. The first group consisted of students with special needs, and the second group included students without special status. Data collection was carried out through an online survey using the 1KA online tool, with the Leisure Time Satisfaction Questionnaire and the General Life Satisfaction Questionnaire. Results: No statistically significant difference was detected between the groups in terms of average leisure time satisfaction. A statistically significant difference was found in satisfaction in the psychological and educational categories. A statistically significant difference was also observed between the groups in life satisfaction. Discussion and conclusion: Students with special needs are more satisfied with their leisure time than students without special needs. Our research confirmed the connection between higher satisfaction in leisure time and satisfaction with life. Based on these results, it would be advisable to encourage and engage all students in leisure activities. Students with special needs should be offered more opportunities to engage in leisure activities, as leisure time does not only have a recreational role for them, but also improves their general well-being, gives them meaning, social inclusion and greater satisfaction in life, which is especially important for them.
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