2024 American Friendship Project study published in PLOS ONE finds average 4-5 friends for adults, challenging loneliness concerns.

Research by American Friendship Project suggests that contrary to previous studies, American adults typically have more friends than indicated (average 4-5 friends), with only 2% reporting no friends at all. Many seek closer friendships and more social time. This challenges concerns about increasing loneliness and declining friendships among Americans. The study's findings were published on July 30, 2024, in PLOS ONE.