Researchers used data from more than 17,000 young people in Germany and the United Kingdom. All participants had no previous relationship experience at the start and were surveyed each year between ages 16 and 29.
The study found that being single for long periods relates to a sharper drop in life satisfaction and to more loneliness, especially in the late twenties. Symptoms of depression also increased at that age. The team found that men, people with higher education, those with lower current well-being, and people who live alone or with a parent were more likely to stay single longer. When people formed a first partnership, life satisfaction rose and loneliness fell, both short term and long term, but depressive symptoms did not show the same improvement.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies subjects and collects dataResearchers
- participant — a person who takes part in a studyparticipants
- survey — to ask people questions to collect informationsurveyed
- life satisfaction — how happy someone is with personal situation
- loneliness — feeling of being alone and sad
- depression — a long period of very low mood
- partnership — a close relationship between two people
- well-being — general physical and mental health
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might people who live alone stay single longer?
- How could a first partnership change someone’s happiness and loneliness?
- Why do you think depressive symptoms did not improve after people formed a first partnership?
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