A recent survey found that nearly a quarter of U.S. adults without a college degree reported having no close friends, with the number even higher among Black adults in that group. This lack of social connections has led to a class divide in social engagement and connections, with college-educated adults reporting higher levels of participation in social activities and membership in social groups. The decline in social connection has been attributed to factors such as the rise in loneliness and social isolation, as well as changes in how people spend their free time, with video games and streaming services providing alternative forms of entertainment. There are also barriers to social participation for those without a college degree, such as limited access to free public spaces and fewer opportunities for social interaction. The lack of investment in public spaces in lower-income neighborhoods and limited access to transportation have further contributed to the decline in social connections. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of maintaining social connections and the need for institutions to play a more active role in facilitating social interaction.
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