Collective experience strengthens social ties

Coincidental convergence aside - a Friday on campus, a getaway day for a big game away – new research from University of Georgia psychology suggests attending live events can combat loneliness and build social connections, particularly if those events are in person.

Led by Franklin faculty member Richard Slatcher (Julianne Holt-Lunstad at BYU is co-lead of the project) the research team analyzed data from 1,551 participants who reported their experiences before and after attending various events, from concerts to fitness classes.

“This research underscores a fairly simple but, I think, powerful takeaway: If you want to feel more socially connected, go to events that are in person, that encourage participation, and that you can attend with others, especially if they’re recurring,” said Slatcher, Gail M. Williamson Distinguished Professor in the UGA Franklin College of Arts and Sciences’ department of psychology. “The average person looking to feel less isolated might benefit from something as accessible as a weekly fitness class or local concert with friends.”

“This work also has implications for those who plan events, whether it be a community event, corporate event, fitness class or a dinner party,” Holt-Lunstad added. “To encourage active participation and engagement with others at the event, minimize elements that are passive and build elements that allow time for conversation, hands-on activities or give each participant a responsibility.”

Active participation was key to maximizing feelings of connectedness, the study found.

So get yourself out there, make something more wonderful by being a part of it. And like coach says, Go Dawgs.

Image: UGA Photo by Chamberlain Smith