Whatever happened to kindness? Spoiler alert: Our readers prove it's alive and well
NPR explores the psychological benefits of small, casual interactions with strangers, often referred to as 'weak ties.' The piece highlights how these brief exchanges can improve mood and foster a sense of community.
Why it matters
It provides evidence-based insight into how simple social behaviors can combat modern isolation and improve mental well-being.
Laura Gao for NPR In recent years, NPR has explored how small interactions with strangers can do more than just brighten our days — they can improve our well‑being.
Our original story from 2023 traced psychologist Gillian Sandstrom's research back to her experience as a lonely graduate student in Toronto who exchanged a wave and hello daily with a hot dog vendor she passed on campus, even though she never once bought a hot dog. That brief exchange boosted her spirits so much that she began studying the power of "weak ties." Her research found what many people intuitively feel: Even the most casual encounters can boost mood, ease isolation and strengthen our sense of community.
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