Unlocking the Friendship Formula: Navigating Loneliness and Social Connections

In this episode of "Off the Data Provided," we explore the complexities of male loneliness and social relationships. Host Dr. Marcus C. Shepard bridges insights from NPR's "It's Been a Minute" (https://www.npr.org/2025/02/17/1263527043/its-been-a-minute-male-loneliness-epidemic-real) with a fresh look at Pew Research data (https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2025/01/16/men-women-and-social-connections/), focusing on how men and women navigate loneliness differently. We delve into the concept of the Friendship Formula and discuss how societal norms and toxic masculinity influence men's social connections. From exploring the life cycle of friendships to offering practical advice in "Ask Dr. Shepard," this episode provides a roadmap for building and maintaining meaningful relationships that enhance emotional well-being.