Why do teens hang out at the mall?

Teens hang out at the mall for various personal reasons but socializing with friends has long been a compelling motive for this favorite teen pastime. Today's Parent indicates that the mall offers a haven where teens can hang out with friends while also subtly scoping out potential boyfriends or girlfriends.

Teens choose the mall in particular because it is a free public place with room to roam and access to a large crowd of people. Some teens also like to check in on friends who have part-time jobs in mall shops. Many stores in a mall also target teens with fashion, gadgets and other products.