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The Science of Connection

Validating the impact of brief social interventions with clinical research.

Validating The Mechanism

Cortisol Response

Baseline Stress

Social isolation is associated with heightened cortisol reactivity to acute stress.

Ref: Heinrichs et al. (2003)

Oxytocin Buffer

Stress Dampening

Social support significantly suppresses cortisol levels and heart rate during stress.

Ref: Heinrichs et al. (2003)

Research Findings

Survival Odds
+50%

Increase in likelihood of survival for those with strong social connections.
Source: Holt-Lunstad (2010)

Weak Ties
Positive

Brief interactions with acquaintances (weak ties) significantly increase positive affect.
Source: Sandstrom & Dunn (2014)

Health Risk
15/day

Loneliness carries a mortality risk equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes daily.
Source: Holt-Lunstad (2015)

Solitude vs. Connection Data (N=118)

Positivity of Experience

4.8
Solitude
6.8
Connected
"Participants reported a significantly more positive experience when they connected with a stranger."
Source: Epley & Schroeder (2014)

Mortality Risk Factor

20%
Obesity
26%
Loneliness
"Loneliness exceeds obesity as a risk factor for premature mortality."
Source: Holt-Lunstad (2015)
Research Context

The data presented aggregates findings from three landmark studies in social psychology and epidemiology. These studies validate the core ReComune premise: that brief social interactions act as a buffer against stress and significantly improve subjective well-being compared to solitude.

Academic References
  • Holt-Lunstad, J., et al. (2010). "Social relationships and mortality risk: a meta-analytic review." PLoS Medicine. (Established the 50% survival metric).
  • Epley, N., & Schroeder, J. (2014). "Mistakenly seeking solitude." Journal of Experimental Psychology. (Provided the Connection vs. Solitude data).
  • Heinrichs, M., et al. (2003). "Social support and cortisol reactivity." Biological Psychiatry. (Verified the cortisol buffering effect).
  • Sandstrom, G. M., & Dunn, E. W. (2014). "Is Efficiency Everything?" Social Psychological and Personality Science. (Confirmed mood benefits of weak ties).