Research Findings: Pandemic Ruptures Numerous Friendships
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on people's relationships, with friendships suffering the most. A survey by the YouGov-"Cambridge Globalism Projects" found that friendships are the biggest losers among all relationships during the pandemic [1].
Globally, the pandemic intensified existing trends of loneliness and disrupted social connections, leading to what some are calling a "friendship recession." Remote work, reduced spontaneous interactions, reliance on digital communication, and an obsession with productivity have all contributed to the decline of both casual and close friendships [2]. Emotional isolation increased despite technological connectivity, making it harder to sustain or form new friendships, especially in adulthood.
In Germany, similar patterns emerged where social distancing and differing views on pandemic policies caused strain in friendships and family relationships, reflecting a broader global trend of relationship challenges exacerbated by the pandemic [3]. Research noted widespread anxiety, sadness, and grief due to isolation and loss of social milestones. Differences in opinions on pandemic policies and vaccination created tensions among friends and family, sometimes damaging relationships [5].
However, not all countries have experienced the same decline in friendships. In Denmark, for example, 62 percent of people said their friendships had remained unchanged [4]. In India, 28 percent said their friendships had become closer.
Psychologist Eva Gjoni stated that in times of crisis, people often focus on their most important relationships, such as family [6]. This may explain why partnerships have been less affected by the pandemic, with nearly half of respondents seeing no difference in their relationship with their partner, and 15 percent saying they had grown closer during the pandemic [1].
The survey results on partnerships show that the pandemic has had very different effects on relationships internationally. While some countries have seen friendships suffer, others have reported an increase in closeness among partners.
References
- YouGov-"Cambridge Globalism Projects"
- The Atlantic
- Zeit-Online
- Denmark Today
- German Medical Association
- Psychology Today
