Time and space consumption at weekends in shopping centers: Sample of Samsun

The practice of consumption has undergone changes through history and has survived to the present day. While consumption was an action that only responded to certain needs in the first periods, it has undergone changes in its structure with industrial revolution especially the emergence of modernization. This situation brought changes in the consumption understanding of the society. With the modern period, consumption has taken on a complex role and started to exhibit the qualities that distinguish individuals from each other. People are looking for new identities and roles by purchasing products and objects. In the pre-modern era, consumer spaces, which were dominated by markets, bazaars and markets, entered the process of differentiation with the modern period. Consumption areas that stand out in this change process are shopping centers. These places, which are increasing in number day by day, have become the living spaces of individuals. Individuals do not only shop in shopping malls that have various activity venues, but also perform entertainment and play activities. However, these places are also considered as social spaces where individuals meet. Shopping Centers have many brands together, air-conditioning in adverse climatic conditions, many entertainment, games and dining venues are located in the same area, which has played an effective role in individuals' preference. This research was carried out to determine the purpose of the individuals going to shopping malls, which are the living spaces of today, how long they stay in these places, and how often they prefer these areas. The research is a quantitative research and screening method was used. It has adopted the type of explanatory research, one of the research types used in Social Sciences. Along with the screening method, the survey data collection technique was applied in the research. The individuals going to shopping centers and living in Atakum, İlkadım, Canik and Tekkeköy, which are the four central districts of Samsun, have been identified as universe. 400 individuals from this universe were selected as samples by simple random sampling method. This study was carried out in Piazza Shopping Center in Canik district of Samsun. 400 people, who were determined by random sampling method from individuals coming to Piazza Shopping Center, were applied face to face questionnaire. Research shows that individuals consider these areas as consumption spaces.At the same time, it is concluded that consumption is mostly focused on benefits. However, it has been learned that individuals consider these areas as leisure spaces as well as shopping. Keywords: Consumption, Shopping Centers, City, Space Consumption