Minutes

How can today’s teens be more connected than ever and yet feel so alone? Psychologists around the world explored why adolescent loneliness is rising, even in a digital age built on connection. 

In an assessment of over 1 million 15-16-year-old adolescents in 37 countries, researchers analyzed survey responses collected over nearly two decades 2000-2018. Participants rated how often they felt left out, isolated, or without friends. These reports were compared to national trends in smartphone ownership and internet access to understand how technology use relates to social well-being. 

Results? Adolescent loneliness rose sharply across most countries studied, especially after 2012, when smartphone use and online access expanded most rapidly. Loneliness was larger among girls than among boys. Teens who spent less time with friends in person and more time online reported higher loneliness overall. 

Digital interaction has never been easier, increasing connections, yet emotional closeness is harder to find. Remember! Connection and friendship grow better in person, digitally not as much. Keep in touch with friends digitally, but build trust, humor, fun, and sharing in person. 

Real connection, friendship, begins with one genuine moment, one-on-one.