YOUTH TERRITORIALITIES IN THE URBAN SPACE OF FEIRA DE SANTANA, BAHIA

Abstract

This article addresses youth circulation in the urban area of Feira de Santana, in the state of Bahia, Brazil, using high school students from Colégio Modelo Luís Eduardo Magalhães—a prominent institution within the state public school system—as a case study. The general objective is to understand how these students construct their territorialities, as expressed through various forms of appropriation of public spaces and urban facilities. A qualitative approach was adopted, supported by a relevant theoretical-conceptual framework, based on literature review, field observations, technical visits, and photographic records of youth circulation areas. Empirical data collected through interviews indicate that a lack of safety and infrastructure contributes to the devaluation of urban public spaces. Conversely, commercial centers—particularly shopping malls—are preferred by young people for offering comfort, security, and opportunities for interaction among different youth groups. It is concluded that both urban spaces and shopping malls increase the chances of encounters with social groups from the same age range. Urban public spaces and shopping malls thus represent distinct forms and intensities of youth sociability and identity expression.