- Researchers studied young people and their romantic choices.
- Many young adults now choose to stay single.
- Long singlehood can lower life satisfaction over time.
- People who stay single often feel more lonely.
- The decline becomes stronger in the late twenties.
- Symptoms of depression also rise by late twenties.
- Starting a first relationship can improve well-being.
- Life satisfaction rises and loneliness falls then.
- Depressive symptoms did not clearly change after.
- The study used many yearly surveys of youth.
Difficult words
- researcher — a person who studies things and finds factsResearchers
- romantic — connected to love and close relationships
- singlehood — the state of living without a romantic partner
- life satisfaction — feeling happy about your life overall
- loneliness — a feeling of being alone and sad
- depression — a strong, long period of sadness and low mood
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you prefer to stay single or have a partner?
- Have you felt lonely before?
- Would a first relationship make you feel happier?
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