7 Scientific Ways for Making Friends in College.

Making friends in college can be tough, but it's an important aspect of the college experience. Research shows that friendships can have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being, making it all the more important to build connections with peers.In her book The Science of Making Friends: Helping Socially In Challenged Teens and Young Adults, Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson shares science-based insights and strategies for making friends. This blog post of hers examines some of these strategies and how you can use them to make friends in college.

1. Use active listening.

 Active listening means paying close attention to what the other person is saying, asking questions and showing that you understand their point of view. According to Dr. Laugeson, active listening is one of the most important skills he believes in making friends. When you actively listen to someone, you show that you care and want to know what they have to say. 

2. Find common interests.

 Finding common interests is another important aspect of making friends. Research shows that we are more likely to connect with people who share our interests. At university, you can join clubs and organizations related to your interests, participate in events related to your hobbies, and connect with people who share your passion for a particular topic.

 3. Practice empathy.

 Empathy means putting yourself in someone else's shoes and understanding their point of view. Practicing empathy helps you relate better to others and build stronger connections. Research shows that empathy can encourage prosocial behaviors, including acts of kindness and helping others. By practicing empathy, you can create a more positive social environment and build meaningful friendships. 

4. Be yourself.

Finally, to make friends, it's important to be yourself. Authenticity is key to building genuine connections with others. Research shows that people are attracted to people who are genuine and true to themselves. When you are yourself, you are more likely to find someone who appreciates who you are.

In summary, making friends in college is essential to our mental health and well-being. Active listening, finding common interests, practicing empathy, and being yourself can help you make meaningful connections with your peers. In The Science of Making Friends by PhD, Elizabeth Laugeson's strategies are science-based to help you overcome social challenges and make friends in college. So don't be afraid to expose yourself and be open to trying new things and meeting new people.