The changing landscape of social connection
Technology, grind culture, social anxiety - what’s stopping us from making meaningful connections as we once did?
Back when we were younger, forming connections felt effortless, and the joy of genuine conversation came naturally. A simple “hey, you want to play?” or “let’s be friends!” was all you had to say to meet a stranger. As we grew up, things changed. Today, our hangouts have been replaced by texts or calls, and playground dates have become online gaming dates. The art of genuine communication is gone.
For students in universities and colleges, there should be limitless possibilities to build friendships. But today, many students seem to keep to themselves, whether they’re too shy to strike up a conversation, too busy, or simply have the common case of social anxiety. Can we get out of this cycle and restore the joy of communication?
The friendship recession
Generation Z is experiencing what experts call the “Friendship Recession,” which is a decline in close friendships and an increase in social isolation. According to University Affairs, young people are now the loneliest age group in Canada, reporting even higher rates of loneliness than older people.
The digital revolution, spanning from the 1970s to the 2020s, introduced personal computers, the internet, and social media. While these technologies have transformed our lives, they have also ruined in-person communication. Kevin W. Grant notes that social media can’t replicate verbal interaction, leaving people more isolated. Another article notes these habits don’t carry the same weight as real conversations.
Thomas Mazejian, founder of Project Management Institute Armenia, argues that technology has caused us to “lose the art of reading social cues, interpreting body language, and engaging in spontaneous, unscripted dialogue.” Research also shows that about 55 per cent of communication comes from facial expression, highlighting the importance of face-to-face interactions. Without face-to-face interactions, how will we have a chance at meaningful contact?
What else is pulling us apart?
Let’s talk about “Grind Culture,” which, according to a Titan Times article, is “the belief that people, especially students, need to be constantly working 24/7, as they believe it is the only path to success.” Working hard is extremely admirable, but has it gotten in the way of compassionate exchange?
A 2023 article from the National Library of Medicine mentions that friendships can positively impact a student’s academic performance, as having friends can provide emotional support and reduce stress. However, students still seem to neglect connection in today’s world, where working hard leaves no room for friendships.
Perhaps social anxiety can also be another factor in our friendship recession. It is possible that students avoid conversation in fear of being judged by others, or maybe they opt for isolation because dialogue can be overwhelming.
Overcoming the barriers
One way to overcome this barrier to connection is by putting electronic devices aside and being fully present with the person in front of you. This allows you to practice active listening, which is a skill that involves actively processing what is being said and seeking to understand both the meaning and intent behind it. Practicing active listening not only deepens closeness with others but also strengthens attention span, concentration, and overall social skills.
In terms of overcoming social anxiety, a Harvard article says exposure therapy can help people conquer their fears and anxiety. According to the article, exposure therapy is a “type of psychological therapy used to help people overcome problems.” By regularly exposing yourself to scenarios that make you uncomfortable, you can work on your social anxiety in a safe environment and conquer the fear or situation you struggle with. Maybe you can ask a stranger to sit at the same table as them, or compliment a neighbour’s outfit.
Even if it takes time to relearn the art of communication, what’s important is to make a consistent effort. Technology, grind culture, and social anxiety may be extraneous forces that try to block our bonds to others. But the responsibility to rebuild close connections is up to us. Friendships and authentic conversations are crucial. Connection doesn’t come from the successes of constant hustle or perfectly curated texts—it comes from the courage to slow down and actually converse.
