From Swiping to Sexting: The Enduring Gender Divide in American Dating and Relationships
February 9, 2023
The January 2023 American Perspectives Survey sheds some light on dating preferences, experiences, and perspectives. The national survey of more than 5,000 adults age 18 and older, including nearly 800 single adults, finds that Americans have strong dating preferences when it comes to living at home, being unemployed, and smoking. Continue Reading →
Diversity and Disconnection
March 1, 2022
Americans who live in areas packed with neighborhood amenities tend to have a more diverse set of friends and acquaintances. Continue Reading →
Have Americans Lost Faith in the Value of a College Education?
January 19, 2022
Americans who pass up an opportunity to go to college may pay for it in the long run, and not just in their paychecks. Continue Reading →
The College Connection: The Education Divide in American Social and Community Life
December 13, 2021
Despite concerns about rising student debt, the economic value of a college education has never been clearer. College graduates are more socially connected, civically engaged, and active in their communities. College graduates have more extensive systems of social support, a larger number of close friends, and feel lonely and isolated less often than those without a degree. Continue Reading →
Yes, Having More Friends is Better
August 9, 2021
Recent work shows that all Americans—men and women alike—benefit when they develop intimate and emotionally supportive connections with their friends. But quantity matters too. Continue Reading →
Can Married Men and Women be Friends? Marriage, Friendship, and Loneliness
July 20, 2021
The time we invest on our relationships, whether it is with a partner, spouse, or a friend, is likely the most important thing we can do to ensure a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Continue Reading →
American Men Suffer a Friendship Recession
July 6, 2021
After a prolonged period of social isolation, Americans are dusting off their social calendars. But as Americans try to rebuild and reconnect, a new survey conducted by the Survey Center on American Life finds that the social landscape is far less favorable than it once was. Continue Reading →
Men’s Social Circles are Shrinking
June 29, 2021
As the pandemic recedes, the American economy will recover. Most businesses will adapt, evolve, and ultimately thrive. The future of American social life looks much bleaker. Continue Reading →
Is Social Isolation Hampering the Vaccine Rollout?
June 23, 2021
Americans who are socially disconnected report far lower vaccination rates and may ultimately prove to be an important impediment. Continue Reading →
What Does it Mean to be a Best Friend?
June 8, 2021
American friendships have come under considerable stress over the past year, but even in the wake of a global pandemic, most Americans still have at least one close friend. In fact, 87 percent of Americans have one or more close friends. These close friendships are critical to our wellbeing. Americans who have a close friendship Continue Reading →