Social Connection Lab at USC

Feeling socially connected with others has a critical impact on our physical and mental well-being. At the SoCoLab at USC, we study the sociocognitive, affective, and neural processes that shape how people connect with one another. Some of our prior and ongoing work investigates the mechanisms underlying loneliness, the dynamics of real-time social perception and interaction, and the role of media, messages, and technology in creating shared meaning. Across these lines of work, we examine how people think about, engage with, and feel understood by others in daily life.

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In answering these questions, we take a multi-disciplinary approach, using theories and methods from psychology, neuroscience, network science, and communication. We hope that by understanding the mechanisms that underlie social connection, we can help people lead happier, healthier lives.