American Friendship Trends
A comprehensive study finds that Americans have multiple close friendships, challenges the belief of increasing social isolation. Face-to-face meetings remain common despite technology. Long-distance friendships are prevalent. Many desire deeper connections. COVID-19 had mixed impacts on friendships.
Key Points
- Americans have 4-5 close friends on average
- Less than 3% report having no friends
- Over 75% are satisfied with their number of friends
- Face-to-face meetings are the most common way of connecting
- Long-distance friendships are prevalent
- Many wish for deeper connections
- College students experience more friend turnover
- COVID-19 had mixed impacts on friendships
Pros
- Americans have multiple close friendships
- Face-to-face meetings remain prevalent
- Long-distance friendships are common
Cons
- Many participants desire closer friendships
- College students experience more friend turnover