The term “third place” was originally coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in the 1980s, and describes a location other than home, work or school — the places where an individual spends most of their time. An iconic example of this is Central Perk, a coffee shop frequented by the main characters of the TV show “Friends.” Other examples are parks, libraries or malls — places for people to get together and socialize. But since the end of the 20th century, third places have slowly disappeared from American society, and this has caused cultural shifts that have far-reaching impacts. 

One of the reasons for the decrease in third places is the rise of digital technology and social media, and consequently, the ability to connect online. Although online connections, with their quick accessibility, allow people to interact more frequently. Countless studies such as those from Kaiser Permanente and Harvard Health have found that digital media has led to a significant increase in loneliness levels in America. This is because an increasing number of individuals prefer to stay at home rather than engage in face-to-face interactions. It is not unexpected that many find malls that were once packed with bustling crowds to have become eerily empty and quiet. 

“I mean school, I identify it with schoolwork and then home I identify with sleeping and relaxing,” FHS FHS senior Sanika Bidarkar said. “[It’s nice] to have that third place to be with your friends.” 

Additionally, in today’s fast-paced world, many simply do not have the time, money or energy to spend at places such as cafes or malls. With inflation hitting an all-time high in 2022, many people find they do not have disposable income to spend on leisure activities. This means they are more likely to work more hours in order to meet the growing financial demands of a world where prices are constantly rising. 

FHS senior Kavya Mahalingham talked about the benefits of having a third place for high school students. 

“I think it’s important for kids to find a place outside of school to just be themselves with their friends,” Mahalingham said, “Because people are the most authentic with their friends.”

Being able to spend time away from their parents is especially crucial for teenagers who are developing their sense of self and independence. 

“It would make students feel more isolated,” Esak said. “It would make it so that they wouldn’t have a place to get their thoughts out.”

Coming out of a worldwide pandemic, the need for socialization and having a support system has proven to be crucial for people’s mental health. These physical spaces provide opportunities for meaningful interactions and can provide people with a sense of belonging. Investing in third places all over the world can help reignite a sense of unity reminiscent of times past, strengthening our community’s bonds. 

“Even if it was just us playing after school and in the field, making up a game, that was where I went to find a community, to find fun, to find friends, to feel safe,” FHS librarian Reuben Zamora said. “We always feel safe when we’re with other people.”