Fact Check: Only 17% of young people report a deep social connection.

Fact Check: "Only 17% of young people report a deep social connection."

What We Know

A recent Harvard Youth Poll indicates that only 17% of young Americans aged 18 to 29 report feeling a "deep social connection." This finding is part of a broader survey that highlights various challenges faced by this demographic, including financial hardship and declining trust in institutions. The poll surveyed 2,096 young Americans nationwide between March 14-25, 2025, and revealed that less than half of respondents feel a sense of community. Additionally, a report from CNBC corroborates this statistic, confirming that just 17% of young Americans feel they have deep social connections.

Analysis

The claim that only 17% of young people report a deep social connection is supported by multiple credible sources. The Harvard Youth Poll is a well-respected survey conducted by the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School, known for its comprehensive insights into the political opinions and social conditions of young Americans. The poll's methodology, which includes a substantial sample size and a focus on a relevant age group, lends credibility to its findings.

Furthermore, the Stanford Report discusses the broader implications of social connection for Gen Z, noting that young adults are increasingly hesitant to interact with one another due to a polarized environment. This aligns with the Harvard findings, suggesting that the low percentage of deep social connections may be symptomatic of larger societal issues, including economic inequality and a pervasive media landscape that emphasizes negativity.

While the Harvard Youth Poll provides a direct statistic, the Stanford Report and other studies, such as those from the World Happiness Report, reinforce the notion that social isolation is a growing concern among young people. These studies indicate that social connection is crucial for mental health and overall well-being, further emphasizing the significance of the 17% statistic.

Conclusion

The claim that "only 17% of young people report a deep social connection" is True. This statistic is well-supported by multiple reputable sources, including the Harvard Youth Poll and corroborating reports from other institutions. The evidence suggests that young Americans are facing significant challenges in forming deep social bonds, which has implications for their mental health and societal engagement.

Sources

1. Harvard Youth Poll
2. Why is social connection so hard for Gen Z? - Stanford Report
3. Social connection linked to improved health and reduced risk of early death - WHO
4. Just 17% of Americans under 30 feel they have deep social connections - CNBC
5. Connecting with others: How social connections improve the happiness of young adults - World Happiness Report