Community challenges

The most common reason Americans give for not interacting more with people from different backgrounds is a “lack of opportunity.” This suggests that many Americans may simply not have the chance to interact more because features of their circumstances prevent it. Some (although fewer) say bridging connection simply isn’t a priority for them. Others... See more

interest in connection generally exceeds the frequency with which they report doing it. For example, even the most frequently cited activity, “engaging in an extended conversation,” is exceeded in interest by about 30 percent, on average.

The discrepancy between interest and engagement for “working to achieve a mutual goal” is likely reflective of the fact that this behavior often requires intentional coordination, resourcing, and planning.

These factors are more predictive of interest than demographic characteristics, suggesting that psychological factors may play a more significant role than identity in shaping people’s approach to connection