Making Friends as an Adult: Science-Backed Social Success

Making friends as an adult can feel awkward, but science-backed strategies help you win people over and build respect. Whether you're 40 or 20, fostering new connections is essential for a fulfilling social life.

Three mothers and their children playing together

How to Make Friends at 40

Published Jun,13 2017 | By Joshua Duvauchelle

For years, sociologists have noticed an interesting trend: people build plenty of friendships in their 20s, but find it difficult to make and maintain friendships as they move into their 30s and 40s. Often, this is due to factors like work and becoming busy with family.