Why Shared Experiences Build Stronger Relationships
Shared Experiences and Lasting Relationships
Shared experiences are among the strongest foundations of healthy human relationships. Research from psychology, neuroscience, sociology, and relationship science consistently shows that spending meaningful time together creates shared memories, strengthens trust, improves communication, and reinforces emotional bonds. Whether through everyday routines, family traditions, travel, recreation, teamwork, volunteering, or overcoming challenges, common experiences help people build lasting personal connections while supporting individual and community well-being.
Shared Experiences Create Stronger Relationships
Shared activities allow people to develop common memories that become part of their shared history. These memories strengthen friendships, romantic relationships, families, and professional partnerships by creating a sense of identity and continuity.
Regular participation in enjoyable activities encourages:
- Emotional intimacy
- Mutual trust
- Better communication
- Greater relationship satisfaction
- Stronger long-term commitment
Even ordinary daily routines can become meaningful rituals that reinforce emotional closeness.
Trust, Cooperation, and Emotional Security
Working together toward common goals builds confidence in one another's abilities and intentions. Research highlights numerous experiences that strengthen trust, including:
- Solving problems together
- Traveling together
- Team sports
- Volunteer service
- Creative projects
- Shared learning
- Household responsibilities
- Facing adversity together
Successfully navigating challenges demonstrates reliability and increases confidence that relationships will remain dependable during future difficulties.
Shared Memories and Emotional Bonding
Shared memories become emotional resources that strengthen relationships over time. Vacations, celebrations, family traditions, holidays, anniversaries, and everyday experiences provide stories that couples, friends, and families revisit throughout life.
These memories help:
- Reinforce identity
- Preserve family history
- Increase resilience during conflict
- Encourage gratitude
- Maintain long-term emotional attachment
Remembering experiences together often renews positive emotions associated with those events.
Communication and Shared Understanding
Many studies emphasize that meaningful interaction extends beyond conversation alone. Shared activities naturally create opportunities for communication while helping people understand one another's perspectives, emotions, personalities, and values.
Activities that encourage communication include:
- Shared meals
- Walking together
- Reading the same book
- Watching films
- Learning new skills
- Playing games
- Traveling
- Collaborative projects
These experiences often produce emotional synchrony, allowing participants to better understand each other's feelings.
Family, Friendship, and Community
Shared experiences strengthen every level of human connection.
Families benefit from:
- Holiday traditions
- Family meals
- Celebrations
- Vacations
- Caregiving
- Storytelling
Friendships grow through:
- Recreation
- Music
- Shared humor
- Sports
- Travel
- Volunteer work
- Mutual support
Communities benefit through:
- Neighborhood projects
- Cultural festivals
- Civic participation
- Religious gatherings
- Group recreation
- Community service
Repeated interaction transforms strangers into trusted members of a social network.
Novel Experiences and Personal Growth
Research suggests that new experiences often produce especially strong relationship benefits because they encourage curiosity, cooperation, adaptability, and positive emotion.
Examples include:
- Visiting unfamiliar places
- Outdoor adventures
- Learning together
- Creative hobbies
- Music and dance
- Recreational activities
- Exploring different cultures
Novel experiences often refresh long-term relationships by creating new shared memories while reducing routine and boredom.
Shared Experiences Throughout Life
Across every stage of life, shared experiences contribute to emotional health and social well-being.
Examples include:
- Childhood family traditions
- Student recreation
- Workplace collaboration
- Marriage and parenting
- Mentorship
- Community participation
- Older adult social activities
Research consistently shows that people who maintain meaningful social relationships tend to experience greater well-being than those who remain socially isolated.
Conclusion
Shared experiences form the foundation of lasting human relationships. They create memories, strengthen trust, encourage cooperation, improve communication, and build emotional resilience across families, friendships, romantic partnerships, workplaces, and communities. Whether through everyday routines or extraordinary adventures, spending meaningful time together helps transform individual experiences into shared histories that support stronger, healthier, and more connected lives.
- 2026
- Acquaintances Can Become Friends Through Repetition
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 1, 2026
- Adult Play Creates Community Through Shared Enjoyment
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Adult Play Creates New Friendship Opportunities
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Attending Live Performances Creates Collective Energy
* | J. Y. Chen | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Campus Recreation Helps Students Find Community
* | S. Güllü and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Collaborative Art Gives Communities a Visible Identity
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Community Recreation Creates Belonging
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Concerts Create Collective Emotional Experiences
* | J. Y. Chen | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Friendly Competition Can Strengthen Relationships
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Healthy Relationships Require Time Spent Face to Face
* | HelpGuide Editorial Team | HelpGuide.org | February 19, 2026
- Music Can Help People Form Trust
* | C. Guanque and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Music Encourages Trust Formation
* | C. Guanque and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Music Festivals Create Temporary Communities
* | J. Y. Chen | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Music Provides Connection Without Extensive Conversation
* | C. Guanque and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Ordinary Conversations Improve Social Well-Being
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 1, 2026
- People Often Underestimate the Value of Reaching Out
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 1, 2026
- Play Connects People Across Social Differences
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Playing Games Reveals Communication Styles
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Recreation Builds Social Connectedness Among Students
* | S. Güllü and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Recreational Flow Makes Social Time More Absorbing
* | S. Güllü and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Recreational Flow Strengthens Student Connection
* | S. Güllü and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Shared Creativity Builds Mutual Appreciation
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | May 11, 2026
- Shared Musical Emotions Encourage Empathy
* | J. Y. Chen | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Shared Musical Emotions Increase Empathy
* | J. Y. Chen | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- Small Moments Accumulate Into Strong Relationships
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 1, 2026
- Small Social Risks Can Lead to Strong Relationships
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 1, 2026
- Social Interaction Strengthens Everyday Well-Being
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 1, 2026
- Team Sports Build Dependence and Mutual Respect
* | S. Güllü and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2026
- 2025
- Anniversary Rituals Affirm Continuing Commitment
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | February 13, 2025
- Classroom Projects Create Peer Relationships
* | Clifton B. Parker | Stanford Report | March 20, 2025
- Collective Exercise Builds Accountability
* | L. Niu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2025
- Community Activities Strengthen Social Capital in Later Life
* | L. Niu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2025
- Community Begins With Invitations to Participate
* | Alex Miller | Greater Good Magazine | November 11, 2025
- Connection Is a Basic Human Need
* | Clea Simon | Harvard Gazette | February 26, 2025
- Daily Routines Can Become Sources of Closeness
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- Dancing Together Creates Nonverbal Connection
* | T. H. Chu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Cognition | 2025
- Friendship Can Help People Heal From Isolation
* | Alex Miller | Greater Good Magazine | November 11, 2025
- Friendship Has Biological as Well as Social Foundations
* | Robert Sanders | Greater Good Magazine | November 7, 2025
- Group Exercise Strengthens Social Capital
* | L. Niu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2025
- Group Singing Encourages Social Unity
* | T. H. Chu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Cognition | 2025
- Group Singing Produces Emotional Unity
* | T. H. Chu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Cognition | 2025
- Musical Participation Supports Emotion Regulation
* | T. H. Chu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Cognition | 2025
- Oxytocin Is Involved in Social Bond Formation
* | Robert Sanders | Greater Good Magazine | November 7, 2025
- Partners Build Connection Through Common Interpretations
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- People Need Several Forms of Connection
* | Aaron Hurst and Nancy Connolly | Greater Good Magazine | July 15, 2025
- Physical Activity Connects Older Adults
* | L. Niu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2025
- Refreshing a Relationship Requires New Shared Rituals
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | February 13, 2025
- Shared Exercise Builds Collective Encouragement
* | L. Niu and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2025
- Shared Experiences Humanize People Across Social Divides
* | Clifton B. Parker | Stanford Report | March 20, 2025
- Shared Reality Gives Relationships Greater Meaning
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- Shared Reality Makes Life Feel More Meaningful
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- Shared Reality Reduces Chaos and Uncertainty
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- Shared Reality Reduces Uncertainty in Close Relationships
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- Shared Silence Can Also Build Intimacy
* | Elizabeth Hopper | Greater Good Magazine | April 21, 2025
- Strong Relationships Are Built Through Participation
* | Aaron Hurst and Nancy Connolly | Greater Good Magazine | July 15, 2025
- Supporting Another Person's Success Builds Trust
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | February 13, 2025
- Supportive Experiences Help Adolescents Feel Secure
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | April 1, 2025
- Teenagers Build Trust Through Reliable Presence
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | April 1, 2025
- Walking Together Makes Conversation Easier
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | February 13, 2025
- Young Adults Build Connection by Taking Social Chances
* | Clifton B. Parker | Stanford Report | March 20, 2025
- 2024
- Camping Encourages Interdependence
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | 2024
- Caregiving Creates Intense Shared Experience
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | 2024
- Collective Events Create Group Cohesion
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Emotional Contagion Helps People Coordinate
* | D. Wang and Coauthors | Frontiers in Human Neuroscience | 2024
- Escaping Routine Restores Curiosity About One Another
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | July 4, 2024
- Everyday Awe Can Become a Family Ritual
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | 2024
- Exploring New Places Creates Memorable Connections
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | July 4, 2024
- Exploring New Places Encourages Discovery Together
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | July 4, 2024
- Family Traditions Connect Generations
* | Emiliana R. Simon-Thomas | Greater Good Magazine | July 29, 2024
- Intense Shared Emotion Reinforces Social Bonds
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Novelty Makes Companions More Attentive
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | July 4, 2024
- Observing Reactions Teaches Emotional Knowledge
* | D. Wang and Coauthors | Frontiers in Human Neuroscience | 2024
- Outdoor Adventures Reveal Character
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | July 4, 2024
- Parent-Child Adventures Encourage Secure Connection
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | 2024
- Positive Experiences Create Emotional Reserves
* | Emiliana R. Simon-Thomas | Greater Good Magazine | July 29, 2024
- Remembering Together Reinforces Emotional Bonds
* | Emiliana R. Simon-Thomas | Greater Good Magazine | July 29, 2024
- Responding Enthusiastically Makes Success Relational
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | January 23, 2024
- Revisiting Meaningful Places Revives Connection
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | July 4, 2024
- Savoring Connection Makes Relationships More Rewarding
* | Emiliana R. Simon-Thomas | Greater Good Magazine | July 29, 2024
- Shared Awe Helps Families Navigate Challenges
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | 2024
- Shared Challenges Create Stories of Resilience
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Shared Emotional Models Support Empathy
* | D. Wang and Coauthors | Frontiers in Human Neuroscience | 2024
- Shared Emotional Representations Support Understanding
* | D. Wang and Coauthors | Frontiers in Human Neuroscience | 2024
- Shared Experiences Align Emotion and Attention
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Shared Experiences Create a Relationship Narrative
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Shared Good News Strengthens Emotional Closeness
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | January 23, 2024
- Shared Hardship Can Strengthen Group Cohesion
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Shared Hardship Demonstrates Dependability
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Shared Wonder Supports Caregivers
* | Greater Good Science Center | The Science of Happiness Podcast | 2024
- Similar Emotional Reactions Produce Togetherness
* | V. Chung and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2024
- Strong Relationships Grow From Many Shared Moments
* | Greater Good Editors | Greater Good Magazine | February 12, 2024
- 2023
- Belonging Improves Employee Well-Being
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | July 13, 2023
- Collective Celebration Amplifies Positive Emotion
* | J. H. Cheong and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Emotional Alignment Helps People Feel Understood
* | J. H. Cheong and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Emotional Synchrony Strengthens Social Bonds
* | J. H. Cheong and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Friendship Requires Consistent Investment
* | Zara Abrams | American Psychological Association | June 1, 2023
- Friendships Protect Health and Emotional Well-Being
* | Zara Abrams | American Psychological Association | June 1, 2023
- In-Person Experiences Provide Rich Social Information
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | 2023
- Informal Workplace Experiences Build Trust
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | July 13, 2023
- Laughter Defuses Relationship Tension
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 27, 2023
- Mutual Vulnerability Deepens Emotional Intimacy
* | Elizabeth Dorrance Hall | Greater Good Magazine | April 12, 2023
- Playfulness Makes Interaction Feel Safer
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | June 27, 2023
- Relationship Check-Ins Create a Shared Understanding
* | Elizabeth Dorrance Hall | Greater Good Magazine | April 12, 2023
- Shared Activities Create Cooperative Competence
* | W. Wolf and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Shared Activities Increase Relationship Satisfaction
* American Psychological Association | Various Authors | Relationship Research Collection | 2023
- Shared Experiences Allow Friends to Grow Together
* | Zara Abrams | American Psychological Association | June 1, 2023
- Shared Experiences Make Abstract Values Concrete
* | W. Wolf and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Shared Experiences Turn Connection Into Belonging
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | July 13, 2023
- Shared Meals Create Predictable Opportunities to Connect
* | Liz Mineo | Harvard Gazette | February 10, 2023
- Shared Offline Activities Balance Digital Interaction
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | 2023
- Sibling Memories Support Lifelong Identity
* | Liz Mineo | Harvard Gazette | February 10, 2023
- Social Fitness Requires Regular Relationship Maintenance
* | Liz Mineo | Harvard Gazette | February 10, 2023
- Solving Problems Together Creates Relational Confidence
* | W. Wolf and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Stable Friendships Support Health
* | Zara Abrams | American Psychological Association | June 1, 2023
- Watching Stories Together Aligns Emotional Responses
* | J. H. Cheong and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2023
- Weak Ties Expand Opportunity and Social Understanding
* | Melissa De Witte | Stanford Report | July 24, 2023
- Workplace Belonging Develops Through Shared Participation
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | July 13, 2023
- Workplace Connection Grows Through Collaboration
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | July 13, 2023
- 2022
- Co-Experienced Stress Can Feel Less Threatening
* | M. R. Goldring and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2022
- Discussing an Experience Reveals Similarity
* | E. C. Baek and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2022
- Facing Stress Together Can Reduce Emotional Reactivity
* | M. R. Goldring and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2022
- Facing Uncertainty Together Reduces Isolation
* | M. R. Goldring and Coauthors | Frontiers in Psychology | 2022
- Feeling Understood Reduces Loneliness
* | E. C. Baek and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2022
- Reading the Same Book Creates a Common Reference Point
* | E. C. Baek and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2022
- Shared Attention Creates a Sense of Togetherness
* | E. C. Baek and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2022
- Shared Understanding Produces Social Connection
* | E. C. Baek and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2022
- Warm Shared Moments May Support Longer Lives
* | Yasmin Anwar | Greater Good Magazine | April 1, 2022
- 2021
- Awe Encourages People to Feel Part of Something Larger
* | Teja Pattabhiraman | Greater Good Magazine | March 2, 2021
- Common Goals Transform Individuals Into a Team
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Common Memories Provide Stability During Conflict
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Cooking Together Encourages Cooperation
* | Stanford University Staff | Stanford Report | December 1, 2021
- Cultural Centers Create Belonging Through Common Experience
* | Stanford University Staff | Stanford Report | November 29, 2021
- Cultural Festivals Create Collective Identity
* | Stanford University Staff | Stanford Report | November 29, 2021
- Emotional Comfort Encourages Shared Exploration
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Feeling Like a Team Supports Strong Relationships
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Friendship Within Romance Supports Long-Term Connection
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Holiday Gatherings Can Renew Neglected Relationships
* | Stanford University Staff | Stanford Report | December 1, 2021
- Intentional Time Together Deepens Relationships
* | Stanford University Staff | Stanford Report | December 1, 2021
- Mutual Care Can Occur Between Strangers
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | January 5, 2021
- Nature Creates Opportunities for Shared Wonder
* | Teja Pattabhiraman | Greater Good Magazine | March 2, 2021
- Nature Experiences Reduce Self-Focused Attention
* | Teja Pattabhiraman | Greater Good Magazine | March 2, 2021
- Repeated Warm Moments Build Lasting Bonds
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | January 5, 2021
- Shared Awe Shifts Attention Beyond the Self
* | Teja Pattabhiraman | Greater Good Magazine | March 2, 2021
- Shared Failure Can Build Humility and Trust
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Shared Positivity Creates Momentary Connection
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | January 5, 2021
- Shared Positivity Creates Moments of Mutual Care
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | January 5, 2021
- Strong Relationships Combine Friendship and Teamwork
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- Trying New Food Encourages Cultural Curiosity
* | Stanford University Staff | Stanford Report | November 29, 2021
- Vulnerability Turns Activities Into Intimate Experiences
* | Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. | Greater Good Magazine | March 15, 2021
- 2020
- Common Interests Provide Natural Meeting Points
* | T. O. Tobore | Frontiers in Psychology | 2020
- Coordinated Activity Signals Willingness to Cooperate
* | L. Busia and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2020
- Friends Give Experiences a Sense of Meaning
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 7, 2020
- Friendship Creates an Equal Space for Shared Life
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 7, 2020
- Shared Experience Has Evolutionary Importance
* | L. Busia and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2020
- Shared Experiences Have Deep Evolutionary Roots
* | L. Busia and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2020
- Shared Goals Strengthen Romantic Partnerships
* | T. O. Tobore | Frontiers in Psychology | 2020
- Shared Values Make Activities More Satisfying
* | T. O. Tobore | Frontiers in Psychology | 2020
- Similar Values Make Shared Activities More Meaningful
* | T. O. Tobore | Frontiers in Psychology | 2020
- 2019
- An Experience Need Not Be Exciting to Build Connection
* | E. Jolly and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2019
- Language Creates Shared Cultural Experience
* | Melissa De Witte | Stanford Report | August 22, 2019
- Learning Together Encourages Intellectual Intimacy
* | Melissa De Witte | Stanford Report | August 22, 2019
- People Seek Shared Experiences for Social Value
* | E. Jolly and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2019
- Relationship Quality Matters Alongside Contact
* | Amy Novotney | American Psychological Association | May 2019
- Shared Attention Makes an Event Social
* | E. Jolly and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2019
- Shared Language Learning Reduces Social Distance
* | Melissa De Witte | Stanford Report | August 22, 2019
- Sharing Experiences Has Social Value Beyond Pleasure
* | E. Jolly and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2019
- Social Isolation Demonstrates the Need for Shared Life
* | Amy Novotney | American Psychological Association | May 2019
- Social Isolation Reveals the Importance of Shared Life
* | Amy Novotney | American Psychological Association | May 2019
- Storytelling Preserves Shared Meaning
* | Melissa De Witte | Stanford Report | August 22, 2019
- 2018
- Clicking With Someone Makes Activities More Enjoyable
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | August 16, 2018
- Clicking With Someone Makes Shared Time More Enjoyable
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | August 16, 2018
- Friends Reflect Who We Are
* | Kira M. Newman | Greater Good Magazine | October 19, 2018
- Helping Together Strengthens Both People
* | NIH News in Health | National Institutes of Health | April 2018
- Household Projects Strengthen Partnership
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | February 13, 2018
- Joint Planning Creates a Sense of Shared Future
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | February 13, 2018
- Positive Experiences Help Build Social Capital
* | A. Arewasikporn and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2018
- Predictability Creates Social Comfort
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | August 16, 2018
- Prioritizing Friendship Produces More Shared History
* | Kira M. Newman | Greater Good Magazine | October 19, 2018
- Relationships Become Stronger When People Show Up
* | NIH News in Health | National Institutes of Health | April 2018
- Safe Challenges Create Mutual Confidence
* | Ken Carter | Greater Good Magazine | April 10, 2018
- Shared Activities Maintain Social Bonds
* | NIH News in Health | National Institutes of Health | April 2018
- Shared Adventures Reveal Adaptability
* | Ken Carter | Greater Good Magazine | April 10, 2018
- Shared Goals Help Couples Follow a Common Path
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | February 13, 2018
- Shared Purpose Sustains Relationships During Routine Periods
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | February 13, 2018
- Shared Risk Can Accelerate Trust When Managed Safely
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | 2018
- Sharing Positive Events Creates Gratitude
* | A. Arewasikporn and Coauthors | National Library of Medicine | 2018
- Varied Social Relationships Protect Well-Being
* | NIH News in Health | National Institutes of Health | April 2018
- 2017
- Anticipating a Trip Creates Connection Before Departure
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Close Relationships Are Central to Lifelong Happiness
* | Liz Mineo | Harvard Gazette | April 11, 2017
- Humor Creates Private Relationship Culture
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | July 17, 2017
- Inside Jokes Preserve Relational History
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | July 17, 2017
- Mindful Travel Improves Shared Experience
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Mutual Support During Illness Deepens Commitment
* | Liz Mineo | Harvard Gazette | April 11, 2017
- Photographs Become Prompts for Shared Memory
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Presence Determines the Quality of Shared Time
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Reliability Is Learned Through Repeated Interaction
* | Peter Reuell | Harvard Gazette | March 29, 2017
- Remembering a Vacation Extends Its Relationship Value
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Secure Attachment Supports Lasting Shared Experiences
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | September 19, 2017
- Shared Affection Extends the Benefits of Intimacy
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | August 3, 2017
- Shared Humor Helps People Recover From Tension
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | July 17, 2017
- Shared Laughter Communicates a Similar Worldview
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | July 17, 2017
- Shared Laughter Signals Similar Understanding
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | July 17, 2017
- Strong Pairwise Relationships Encourage Cooperation
* | Peter Reuell | Harvard Gazette | March 29, 2017
- Surviving Change Together Reinforces Commitment
* | Liz Mineo | Harvard Gazette | April 11, 2017
- Travel Challenges Reveal Cooperative Skills
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Travel Produces a Distinctive Relationship History
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- Vacation Experiences Are Stronger When People Stay Present
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | July 13, 2017
- 2016
- Shared Experiences Create Lasting Emotional Bonds
* Greater Good Magazine | Kira M. Newman | Why Shared Experiences Matter | 2016
- 2015
- Close Friendship Becomes More Important With Age
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | November 13, 2015
- Cross-Cultural Exchange Creates Personal Understanding
* | Clifton B. Parker | Stanford Report | March 18, 2015
- Long-Term Friends Carry Personal History
* | Jill Suttie | Greater Good Magazine | November 13, 2015
- Online Encounters Can Begin—but Not Guarantee—Trust
* | Clifton B. Parker | Stanford Report | March 18, 2015
- Road Trips Create Extended Time for Conversation
* | Christine Carter | Greater Good Magazine | June 16, 2015
- Time Away Interrupts Relationship Routine
* | Christine Carter | Greater Good Magazine | June 16, 2015
- Vacations Interrupt Routine and Restore Connection
* | Christine Carter | Greater Good Magazine | June 16, 2015
- 2014
- Community Involvement Supports Healthy Aging
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | May 28, 2014
- Dancing Creates a Sense of Self-Other Merging
* | Bronwyn Tarr, Jacques Launay and Robin I. M. Dunbar | National Library of Medicine | 2014
- Intergenerational Activities Reduce Social Distance
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | May 28, 2014
- Making Music Requires Mutual Attention
* | Bronwyn Tarr, Jacques Launay and Robin I. M. Dunbar | National Library of Medicine | 2014
- Multiple Social Networks Support Older Adults
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | May 28, 2014
- Older Adults Benefit From Multiple Social Networks
* | American Psychological Association | American Psychological Association | May 28, 2014
- Rhythmic Synchrony Promotes Social Bonding
* | Bronwyn Tarr, Jacques Launay and Robin I. M. Dunbar | National Library of Medicine | 2014
- Shared Experiences Transform Time Into Relationship History
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | November 24, 2014
- Shared Grief Creates Mutual Recognition
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | November 24, 2014
- Sharing Emotional Experiences Can Ease Distress
* | Summer Allen | Greater Good Magazine | November 24, 2014
- 2011
- Celebrating Collective Success Strengthens Group Identity
* | Peter Reuell | Harvard Gazette | November 14, 2011
- Cooperative Games Reward Mutual Success
* | Peter Reuell | Harvard Gazette | November 14, 2011
- Face-to-Face Networks Spread Emotion and Behavior
* | Paul Massari | Harvard Gazette | August 29, 2011
- Orientation Experiences Help Newcomers Belong
* | Paul Massari | Harvard Gazette | August 29, 2011
- Social Networks Influence Cooperation Through Experience
* | Peter Reuell | Harvard Gazette | November 14, 2011
- 2010
- Mentorship Becomes Stronger Through Joint Work
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | December 15, 2010
- Physical Proximity Improves Collaboration
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | December 15, 2010
- Shared Work Builds Respect for Hidden Effort
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | December 15, 2010
- 2003
- Civic Participation Builds Trust Across Differences
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Collective Recovery Strengthens Communities
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Community Participation Creates Social Capital
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Gardening Together Encourages Patient Cooperation
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Mutual Aid Converts Concern Into Experience
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Neighborhood Projects Turn Proximity Into Relationship
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Public Rituals Reinforce Collective Memory
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Shared Activism Builds Political Solidarity
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Shared Spiritual Practices Reinforce Community
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- Volunteer Service Reveals Shared Values
* | Alvin Powell | Harvard Gazette | September 25, 2003
- 2001
- Affectionate Interaction Reinforces Partnership
* | Gian C. Gonzaga and Coauthors | Journal of Personality and Social Psychology | 2001
- Love Encourages Commitment During Threats to a Bond
* | Gian C. Gonzaga and Coauthors | Journal of Personality and Social Psychology | 2001
- Various
- Celebrating Milestones Reinforces Relationships
* Psychology Today | Various Authors | Celebrating Success Together | Various
- Group Experiences Foster Social Identity
* Simply Psychology | Saul McLeod | Social Identity Theory | Updated Various
- Novel Experiences Help Couples Stay Connected
* Stony Brook University | Arthur Aron Research Summary | Relationship Studies | Various
- Overcoming Challenges Together Builds Trust
* Psychology Today | Various Authors | Trust and Shared Adversity | Various
- Shared Laughter Creates Emotional Closeness
* Greater Good Magazine | Various Authors | The Science of Laughter | Various
- Shared Learning Creates Mutual Growth
* Harvard Extension School | Various Authors | Lifelong Learning | Various
- Shared Meals Promote Social Connection
* Cornell University | Various Authors | Family Meals Research | Various
- Shared Memories Support Long-Term Relationships
* Greater Good Magazine | Various Authors | Building Strong Relationships | Various
- Shared Music Experiences Unite People
* Scientific American | Various Authors | Music and Social Bonding | Various
- Shared Rituals Strengthen Family Connections
* University of Minnesota Extension | Various Authors | Family Rituals and Traditions | Various
- Travel Strengthens Personal Relationships
* National Geographic Travel | Various Authors | Benefits of Traveling Together | Various
- Volunteering Together Strengthens Compassion
* Points of Light | Various Authors | Volunteer Together | Various
- Working Toward Common Goals Strengthens Teams
* Harvard Business Review | Various Authors | Team Collaboration | Various
