In today’s fast-paced digital world, the dynamics of dating and intimacy have undergone a seismic shift. Esther Perel, renowned psychotherapist and author, delves into the complexities of modern relationships in her recent appearance on ‘The Diary of a CEO.’ With a compelling blend of insight and candor, she highlights a pressing issue that many shy away from discussing: the stark decline in sexual connection among couples. Swipe culture, coupled with an epidemic of loneliness, often leaves individuals feeling unfulfilled despite being more connected than ever. In this blog post, we will unpack key takeaways from Perel’s conversation, fact-checking the assertions and illuminating the hidden truths behind our current relationship crisis. Join us as we explore the factors contributing to declining intimacy and what can be done to revive meaningful connections in our lives.

Find the according transcript on TRNSCRBR

All information as of 06/14/2025

Fact Check Analysis

Claim

The unique moment in history we are experiencing is redesigning our communication and ways of connecting in relationships.

Veracity Rating: 4 out of 4

Facts

## Evaluating the Claim: Redesigning Communication and Relationships

The claim that our current historical moment is redesigning our communication and ways of connecting in relationships is supported by various observations and analyses from experts like Esther Perel. Here's a detailed evaluation of this claim, focusing on the societal shift in communication methods and relationship dynamics:

### Social Atrophy and Digital Communication

Esther Perel highlights **social atrophy** as a significant issue, where the decline in face-to-face interactions and the rise in digital communication have weakened social skills and made genuine connections harder to achieve[1][2][5]. This trend is partly a legacy of the pandemic but also reflects broader societal changes, such as increased working from home and digital communication, leading to fewer in-person interactions[4][5].

### Impact on Relationships and Intimacy

Perel notes that this shift has contributed to a **sexual recession**, with many millennials and Gen Z individuals experiencing reduced sexual frequency and intimacy due to diminished social skills and reliance on dating apps[5]. This suggests that the way we connect and form relationships is indeed changing, with technology playing a central role.

### Importance of Real-Life Interactions

Perel emphasizes the need for **real-life interactions** and **emotional availability** to foster deeper connections. She argues that attraction in long-term relationships requires ongoing engagement and novelty, suggesting that individuals must actively invest in keeping their partnerships vibrant[5]. This perspective underscores the importance of reassessing how we connect with others in an age dominated by technology.

### Evidence and Validity

The claim is supported by observations of increased isolation and decreased social skills due to digital communication[4][5]. While specific scientific studies are not cited here, research in social psychology and communication studies often highlights the challenges of maintaining intimacy and deep connections in a digitally mediated environment.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, the claim that our current historical moment is redesigning our communication and ways of connecting in relationships is valid. The shift towards digital communication and the decline in face-to-face interactions have significant implications for social skills and relationship dynamics. Experts like Esther Perel provide valuable insights into these changes, emphasizing the need for real-life interactions and emotional engagement to maintain meaningful connections.

### Recommendations for Further Research

1. **Quantitative Studies**: Conduct surveys or experiments to quantify the impact of digital communication on social skills and relationship satisfaction.
2. **Qualitative Analysis**: Use in-depth interviews or focus groups to explore how individuals perceive and adapt to these changes in communication and relationship dynamics.
3. **Longitudinal Research**: Track changes in social interaction and relationship quality over time to understand the long-term effects of these trends.

By exploring these avenues, researchers can provide more nuanced insights into the evolving nature of human connection in the digital age.

Citations

Claim

One in three men under 30 in the US reported no sex in the past year, three times the rate from 2008.

Veracity Rating: 3 out of 4

Facts

## Evaluating the Claim: One in Three Men Under 30 in the US Reported No Sex in the Past Year

The claim that one in three men under 30 in the US reported no sex in the past year, which is three times the rate from 2008, touches on a broader trend of declining sexual activity among young people. To assess this claim, we need to examine recent studies and surveys on sexual activity among young men in the United States.

### Evidence from Recent Studies

1. **Indiana University Study**: Research from Indiana University found that nearly one in three U.S. men aged 18 to 24 reported no sexual activity in the past year, marking an increase from 19% to 31% over a certain period[3]. This study aligns with the notion of increased sexual inactivity among young men but does not provide a direct comparison to the 2008 rate.

2. **Trend in Sexual Inactivity**: The trend of increasing sexual inactivity among young people is supported by various studies indicating a decline in sexual activity over the past few decades. For instance, between 1991 and 2021, the percentage of high school males who had never engaged in sexual intercourse increased significantly[2].

3. **Comparison to 2008 Rates**: While specific data from 2008 is not readily available in the provided sources, the general trend suggests an increase in sexual inactivity among young men over the past few decades. However, to confirm the claim that the rate is three times higher than in 2008, more specific historical data would be necessary.

### Analysis and Conclusion

– **Trend Validation**: The claim that there is an increase in sexual inactivity among young men is supported by studies showing a rise in the percentage of young men reporting no sexual activity[3].

– **Lack of Specific Historical Data**: The claim that the rate is three times higher than in 2008 cannot be directly verified without specific data from that year. However, the overall trend of increased sexual inactivity among young people is consistent with broader societal shifts and research findings.

– **Societal and Technological Factors**: Experts like Esther Perel suggest that factors such as decreased face-to-face interactions and increased reliance on digital communication contribute to this trend, making genuine connections harder to achieve[Summary].

In summary, while the claim about one in three men under 30 reporting no sex in the past year aligns with observed trends of increased sexual inactivity, the specific comparison to 2008 rates requires more detailed historical data for full verification.

Citations

Claim

In Japan over 40% of young adults are virgins and many say that they have no interest in sex.

Veracity Rating: 2 out of 4

Facts

To evaluate the claim: **"In Japan over 40% of young adults are virgins and many say that they have no interest in sex,"** we must examine available data on sexual behavior among young adults in Japan and contextualize it within broader social trends.

## Evidence from Research and Surveys

**Virginity Rates Among Young Adults in Japan**

– **Recent Surveys:** Multiple sources indicate that a significant proportion of young adults in Japan report being virgins. For example, a 2025 report notes that roughly 50% of young adults aged 18–29 in Japan are virgins[2]. However, this figure is higher than some other reputable sources, which may reflect differences in survey methodology or sample selection.
– **Older but Widely Cited Data:** Earlier studies, such as those referenced in news articles from 2015–2016, reported that around 42% of men and 44.2% of women in certain age groups (often unmarried young adults) admitted to being virgins[5]. These figures have been widely cited in discussions about Japan’s "sexless generation."
– **Academic Research:** A 2019 study published in *BMC Public Health* found that about one in four Japanese adults under age 39 are virgins, which is a lower but still substantial proportion[3]. This suggests that while the 40%+ figure may apply to specific subgroups or age brackets, the overall rate for all young adults is somewhat lower.

**Interest in Sex and Relationships**

– **Attitudes Toward Sex:** While high rates of virginity are documented, there is less direct evidence that "many" young adults in Japan have "no interest in sex." The *BMC Public Health* study notes that most virgins in the 25–39 age group (about 80%) still hope to get married in their lifetimes, which implies a desire for romantic and potentially sexual relationships in the future[3].
– **Cultural and Social Trends:** Japan is experiencing a broader trend of delayed marriage, reduced sexual activity, and declining birth rates. This is often attributed to factors such as economic pressures, social anxiety, and changing attitudes toward relationships, rather than a widespread lack of interest in sex per se[3][5].

## Contextualizing the Claim

– **Claim Accuracy:** The claim that "over 40% of young adults are virgins" is supported by some surveys, particularly those focusing on unmarried individuals or specific age groups (e.g., 18–29 or 20–39)[2][5]. However, broader academic studies suggest a lower but still significant rate (around 25% for under-39s)[3].
– **Interest in Sex:** The assertion that "many say that they have no interest in sex" is less substantiated. While there is evidence of reduced sexual activity and delayed relationships, most young adults still express a desire for marriage and, by implication, romantic and sexual relationships[3].

## Broader Social and Relationship Dynamics

– **Social Atrophy and Sexual Recession:** The summary referencing Esther Perel’s discussion highlights global trends of declining face-to-face interactions and increased digital communication, which can weaken social skills and reduce opportunities for intimacy. These trends are also observed in Japan, where social anxiety and economic factors contribute to delayed or reduced sexual activity[3].
– **Relationship Dynamics:** Perel’s emphasis on the need for ongoing engagement and emotional connection in relationships is relevant to Japan’s context, where many young adults struggle with forming and maintaining romantic partnerships[3].

## Conclusion

– **Claim Evaluation:** The claim that "over 40% of young adults in Japan are virgins" is partially accurate for certain age groups and survey samples, but not universally representative of all young adults. The broader academic literature suggests a lower but still notable rate of virginity among young adults in Japan.
– **Interest in Sex:** There is limited evidence that "many" young adults in Japan have no interest in sex. Most virgins still express a desire for marriage and romantic relationships, indicating that lack of opportunity or social barriers may be more significant factors than outright disinterest[3][5].

**In summary:** The claim is partially supported by available data, but should be qualified to reflect the nuances of survey methodologies and the broader context of social and relationship trends in Japan. The assertion about widespread disinterest in sex is not strongly supported by current evidence.

Citations

Claim

People are spending less time together where they are actually attentive to each other.

Veracity Rating: 4 out of 4

Facts

To evaluate the claim that "People are spending less time together where they are actually attentive to each other," we must consider both qualitative insights from relationship experts and quantitative sociological research.

## Expert Insight: Esther Perel and Social Atrophy

Esther Perel, a leading relationship therapist, has identified "social atrophy" as a growing concern in modern society. She describes this as a decline in face-to-face interactions and the weakening of social skills, largely attributed to digital communication and over-scheduled lives. Perel notes that fewer shared spaces and less spontaneous interaction have made genuine, attentive connections harder to achieve[1][2][4]. This trend is reflected in the way people now expect more from their intimate relationships—seeking not just companionship but also identity, meaning, and community—often placing unrealistic burdens on romantic partners[3].

Perel also highlights the "sexual recession," where younger generations report less frequent sexual activity and intimacy, partly due to diminished social skills and increased reliance on dating apps[3]. She argues that attraction and intimacy in long-term relationships require ongoing engagement, novelty, and emotional availability, rather than passive biological responses[3][5].

## Sociological and Psychological Evidence

**1. Decline in Face-to-Face Interaction**

Multiple studies support the notion that digital communication has reduced the quantity and quality of in-person interactions. For example, research published in the *Journal of Social and Personal Relationships* has found that increased screen time is associated with lower relationship satisfaction and less time spent in meaningful, face-to-face conversation. While these studies do not always specify "attentiveness," they consistently report that digital communication is less effective at fostering emotional connection and understanding.

**2. Social Atrophy and Relationship Dynamics**

The concept of "social atrophy" is not a formal scientific term but is widely used by experts to describe the erosion of social skills and the ability to connect deeply with others. This is supported by psychological research showing that social skills, like any other skills, require practice. When people spend less time in real-life social situations, their ability to be attentive and empathetic can diminish[5].

**3. Expectations and Emotional Needs**

Perel and other experts argue that as traditional communal structures (like religion and extended family) have waned, people increasingly look to romantic relationships to fulfill a broader range of emotional needs—belonging, identity, community, and meaning[3]. This shift has made relationships more complex and demanding, often leading to disappointment when partners cannot meet these heightened expectations.

## Summary Table: Key Points

## Conclusion

The claim that "People are spending less time together where they are actually attentive to each other" is supported by expert analysis and sociological research. Esther Perel’s concept of "social atrophy" and the documented decline in face-to-face interaction due to digital communication and busy schedules provide a strong foundation for this claim[1][2][3]. While direct scientific studies on "attentiveness" are limited, the broader trends in relationship dynamics and social behavior corroborate the assertion that genuine, attentive connection is becoming rarer in modern society.

Therefore, the claim is valid based on current expert and sociological evidence.

Citations

Claim

If you have less connection less attention less intimacy less interest why do you think that people are suddenly going to be turned on?

Veracity Rating: 4 out of 4

Facts

## Evaluating the Claim: Correlation Between Emotional Connection and Sexual Attraction

The claim posits that a decrease in emotional connection, attention, intimacy, and interest would logically lead to a decrease in sexual attraction. This assertion is supported by psychological studies and insights from relationship experts like Esther Perel, who highlight the importance of emotional connection in maintaining sexual attraction, especially within long-term relationships.

### Psychological Studies on Desire and Relationship Dynamics

1. **Emotional Connection and Intimacy**: Research suggests that emotional intimacy is a crucial factor in maintaining sexual desire within relationships. Studies have shown that couples who report higher levels of emotional intimacy also report higher levels of sexual satisfaction. This supports the idea that emotional connection is essential for maintaining sexual attraction.

2. **Social Atrophy and Its Impact**: Esther Perel's concept of "social atrophy" refers to the decline in face-to-face interactions and deep social connections, which can negatively impact sexual relationships. This decline in social skills and genuine connections can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection, further reducing sexual desire[2][3].

3. **Role of Novelty and Engagement**: Perel emphasizes the need for ongoing engagement and novelty in relationships to maintain attraction. This aligns with psychological theories that novelty and excitement can enhance sexual desire by stimulating the brain's reward system.

4. **Story-Based Understanding of Relationships**: Perel advocates for a narrative approach to understanding relationships, where emotional connection and interaction are central. This perspective is supported by research indicating that shared experiences and emotional narratives can strengthen relationships and enhance intimacy.

### Conclusion

The claim that reduced emotional connection leads to decreased sexual attraction is supported by both psychological studies and expert insights. Emotional intimacy, social connection, and ongoing engagement are critical components of maintaining sexual desire in relationships. The decline in these aspects, as highlighted by Perel's concept of social atrophy, can indeed lead to a decrease in sexual attraction and intimacy.

### References

While specific academic references are not provided in the search results, the following points are generally supported by research in psychology and relationship dynamics:

– **Emotional Intimacy and Sexual Satisfaction**: Studies have consistently shown that emotional intimacy is positively correlated with sexual satisfaction.
– **Social Atrophy and Isolation**: The decline in face-to-face interactions can lead to social isolation, negatively impacting sexual relationships.
– **Novelty and Engagement**: Novelty and engagement are key factors in maintaining sexual desire by stimulating the brain's reward system.
– **Narrative Approach to Relationships**: Shared experiences and emotional narratives can strengthen relationships and enhance intimacy.

For detailed academic references, consulting peer-reviewed journals in psychology and relationship studies would provide further evidence supporting these points.

Citations

Claim

The quality of your relationships will determine the quality of your lives.

Veracity Rating: 4 out of 4

Facts

To evaluate the claim, **"The quality of your relationships will determine the quality of your lives,"** it is necessary to examine both the psychological and sociological evidence regarding the impact of relationships on well-being and life satisfaction.

## Scientific and Academic Support

**1. Psychological Research on Relationships and Well-being**

A substantial body of research in psychology and sociology supports the idea that the quality of one’s relationships is a strong predictor of overall life satisfaction and mental health. Studies consistently show that individuals with strong, supportive relationships tend to experience greater happiness, better physical health, and increased longevity. For example, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on adult life, found that close relationships are the most significant factor in happiness and health over the lifespan.

**2. Social Atrophy and Modern Challenges**

Esther Perel’s discussion of "social atrophy"—the gradual decline in face-to-face interactions and weakening of social skills—aligns with current research on the effects of digital communication and social isolation. Research indicates that reduced in-person social contact can lead to increased loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which in turn negatively affect overall life quality[2][4]. The rise of digital communication and dating apps has changed how people form and maintain relationships, sometimes leading to superficial connections and a decline in intimacy and sexual satisfaction, especially among younger generations[2][4].

**3. The Role of Emotional Connection and Novelty**

Perel’s emphasis on the importance of ongoing engagement, emotional availability, and novelty in relationships is supported by psychological theories such as self-expansion theory, which posits that individuals seek to grow and expand their sense of self through close relationships. Maintaining attraction and intimacy in long-term relationships requires active effort, emotional investment, and the creation of shared experiences[4].

## Evidence from Esther Perel’s Perspective

Esther Perel highlights that as communal and religious structures have waned, people increasingly look to their intimate relationships to fulfill existential needs for belonging, identity, community, and meaning[4]. This shift places greater pressure on romantic partnerships, which are now expected to provide not only companionship and support but also personal growth and fulfillment. When these needs are unmet due to social atrophy or poor relationship quality, individuals may experience diminished life satisfaction[2][4].

Perel also notes that the decline in social skills and the rise of digital communication have contributed to a "sexual recession," where many young people report less frequent and less satisfying sexual relationships. This trend is linked to a broader decline in the quality of social connections, which are foundational to trust, support, and intimacy[2][4].

## Summary Table: Key Points

## Conclusion

The claim that **"the quality of your relationships will determine the quality of your lives"** is strongly supported by psychological and sociological research, as well as by the insights of relationship experts like Esther Perel. High-quality relationships are consistently linked to greater happiness, health, and life satisfaction, while social atrophy and poor relationship quality are associated with negative outcomes such as loneliness, anxiety, and diminished intimacy[2][4]. Therefore, the claim is valid and well-substantiated by current evidence.

Citations

Claim

Many of these people go home and there's nobody there.

Veracity Rating: 4 out of 4

Facts

## Evaluating the Claim: "Many of these people go home and there's nobody there."

The claim highlights issues of loneliness and isolation, which are increasingly relevant in discussions about mental health and social behavior. This phenomenon can be linked to broader societal trends and the impact of technology on human interaction.

### Contextual Background

Esther Perel, a renowned relationship expert, discusses the concept of "social atrophy," which refers to the decline in face-to-face interactions and the erosion of social skills due to increased reliance on digital communication[1][3]. This trend contributes to feelings of loneliness and isolation, as people spend more time alone at home, often without meaningful social connections[3].

### Relevance to Mental Health and Social Behavior

1. **Loneliness and Isolation**: Studies have shown that loneliness can have severe negative impacts on mental health, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The rise in social atrophy exacerbates these issues by reducing opportunities for face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for emotional well-being[5].

2. **Impact of Technology**: The proliferation of digital communication tools, such as dating apps and social media, has altered the way people interact. While these platforms provide connectivity, they often fail to replace the depth and intimacy of in-person relationships, leading to a sense of disconnection[3].

3. **Evolving Relationship Dynamics**: Perel emphasizes the importance of fostering deeper connections through real-life interactions and emotional availability. This is particularly relevant in romantic relationships, where ongoing engagement and novelty are essential for maintaining intimacy[3].

### Conclusion

The claim that "many of these people go home and there's nobody there" is supported by the broader context of social atrophy and its effects on loneliness and isolation. The decline in face-to-face interactions and the rise of digital communication contribute to this phenomenon, highlighting the need for a reassessment of how we connect with others in a technology-dominated age.

### Evidence and References

– **Social Atrophy and Loneliness**: Esther Perel's discussions on social atrophy and its impact on relationships and loneliness provide a framework for understanding the claim[1][3].
– **Impact of Technology**: Research on the effects of digital communication on social skills and intimacy supports the notion that technology can exacerbate feelings of isolation[3].
– **Mental Health Implications**: Studies on loneliness and mental health underscore the importance of addressing social isolation to improve overall well-being.

While specific academic references are not provided in the search results, the discussion aligns with broader research on loneliness, social isolation, and the impact of technology on human relationships.

### Future Research Directions

1. **Quantitative Studies**: Conducting quantitative studies to measure the prevalence of loneliness and isolation among different demographics could provide more concrete evidence.
2. **Intervention Strategies**: Developing and evaluating interventions aimed at enhancing face-to-face interactions and community engagement could help mitigate the effects of social atrophy.

In conclusion, the claim is supported by the context of social atrophy and its implications for loneliness and isolation, emphasizing the need for deeper, more meaningful connections in a digitally driven world.

Citations

Claim

The world is filled with people who want to give a better life to their family and to their children.

Veracity Rating: 3 out of 4

Facts

## Evaluating the Claim: "The world is filled with people who want to give a better life to their family and to their children."

The claim reflects a generalized belief about human motivation and familial commitment. To evaluate its validity, we need to consider sociological research and evidence related to family dynamics and parental aspirations.

### Sociological Perspectives

1. **Parental Investment Theory**: This theory suggests that parents generally invest in their children to ensure their survival and success, which aligns with the idea that people want to provide a better life for their families. However, this theory primarily focuses on biological and evolutionary aspects rather than social or emotional motivations.

2. **Social and Emotional Motivations**: Research in sociology and psychology indicates that many people are motivated by a desire to provide for their families and improve their children's lives. This motivation is often driven by emotional and social factors, such as love, responsibility, and a sense of duty.

3. **Cultural and Economic Factors**: The ability to provide a better life for one's family can be influenced by cultural norms, economic conditions, and access to resources. In many societies, providing for one's family is seen as a key aspect of personal fulfillment and social status.

### Challenges and Variations

– **Social Atrophy and Isolation**: As noted by Esther Perel, social atrophy and increased isolation can affect family dynamics and relationships. This trend might influence how people perceive and achieve their goals of providing a better life for their families[1][2].

– **Economic and Environmental Pressures**: Economic instability, environmental challenges, and societal changes can impact individuals' ability to provide for their families. These factors can vary widely across different regions and communities.

### Conclusion

The claim that "the world is filled with people who want to give a better life to their family and to their children" is generally supported by sociological and psychological research. However, it is crucial to recognize that this desire is influenced by a complex array of factors, including cultural norms, economic conditions, and personal circumstances. While many people aspire to improve their families' lives, the ability to achieve this goal can be significantly affected by broader societal trends and challenges.

## References

[1] Esther Perel. *Letters from Esther #50: Could it really be that easy to resolve conflict?*
[2] Sarah Stein Lubrano. *Be Kind, Everyone is Fighting a Social Atrophy You Know Nothing …*
[3] *Why Dating Feels Like The Lonely Heart's Club, With Esther Perel.*
[4] Esther Perel. *Letters from Esther #22: Small Talk.*
[5] Elise Loehnen. *Esther Perel: Conflict as Tool for Connection.*
*Parental Investment Theory.*
*Social and Emotional Motivations in Parenting.*
*Cultural and Economic Factors in Family Dynamics.*
*Economic and Environmental Pressures on Families.*

**Note:** Specific references , , , and are not directly cited from the search results but are based on general knowledge and would typically be supported by academic literature in sociology and psychology.

Citations

Claim

We give meaning to everything. We are meaning making machines.

Veracity Rating: 4 out of 4

Facts

The claim that “We give meaning to everything. We are meaning making machines” is well-supported by established theories in psychology and philosophy, and it is highly relevant to the broader discussion of human connection and social dynamics, as highlighted in conversations with Esther Perel and related commentary on social atrophy.

## Psychological and Philosophical Foundations

**Meaning-Making in Human Cognition**

– **Constructivist Perspective:** In psychology, constructivist theories posit that humans actively construct meaning from their experiences. This process is fundamental to how we interpret the world, form relationships, and navigate social interactions. The idea that we are “meaning making machines” aligns with this view, as it suggests that meaning is not inherent in objects or events but is created by individuals through cognitive and emotional processes.
– **Philosophical Underpinnings:** Existentialist and phenomenological philosophers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger, argue that humans are condemned to create meaning in a world that is inherently meaningless. This philosophical stance supports the notion that meaning is not given but is actively constructed by individuals.

## Relevance to Social Dynamics and Relationships

**Social Atrophy and Meaning-Making**

– **Esther Perel’s Observations:** Perel identifies “social atrophy” as a critical concern, noting that reduced face-to-face interactions and increased digital communication have weakened social skills and made genuine connections harder to achieve[1][3][5]. This context is important because it highlights how the decline in meaningful social engagement affects our ability to construct and sustain meaningful relationships.
– **Impact on Intimacy and Connection:** The “sexual recession” among younger generations, as discussed by Perel, is partly attributed to diminished social skills and over-reliance on technology. This underscores the importance of active meaning-making in relationships—where emotional connection, novelty, and ongoing engagement are essential for maintaining attraction and intimacy[3][5].

## Scientific and Academic Support

**Empirical Evidence**

– **Cognitive Psychology:** Research in cognitive psychology demonstrates that humans are predisposed to seek patterns, assign causality, and create narratives to make sense of their environment. This process is automatic and pervasive, supporting the claim that we are “meaning making machines.”
– **Social Psychology:** Studies on social cognition show that individuals interpret social cues and construct meaning from interactions, which shapes their perceptions and behaviors in relationships.

## Synthesis and Conclusion

The claim that “We give meaning to everything. We are meaning making machines” is strongly supported by psychological and philosophical theories. Humans are inherently driven to construct meaning from their experiences, relationships, and social interactions. This process is essential for navigating the complexities of modern life, especially in an era marked by social atrophy and digital communication. The insights from Esther Perel and related commentary further illustrate how the decline in meaningful social engagement challenges our ability to create and sustain deep connections, reinforcing the importance of active meaning-making in both personal and societal contexts[1][3][5].

**In summary:**
The claim is valid and well-grounded in scientific and philosophical literature. Humans are indeed meaning-making beings, and this capacity is central to our psychological functioning and social well-being. The current challenges of social atrophy and digital communication highlight the ongoing need for active engagement in meaning-making to foster genuine connections and maintain healthy relationships.