In my brain, the term “loose social ties” has taken root despite “weak social ties” being the predominant nomenclature. I think my mind resists using the term “weak” for something I visualize as anything but weak!

I’ve got some resources for you this week- including a much more in-depth explanation of this concept from Hidden Brain. If you haven’t listened in, Shankar Vedantam provides beautiful, non-partisan explorations of behavioral phenomena that impact the way we see the world today. Hidden Brain has done many podcasts exploring weak social ties, but this one offers a good place to start: The Power of Tiny Interactions

If you prefer a short, written article, here is one from Psychology Today.

I also wanted to include some information on Polyvagal Theory if you are interested in that rabbit hole.

The Polyvagal Institute provides an overview of the theory on their website.

HOWEVER, I think it is also critically important to digest dissenting opinions, especially when it comes to theories. Polyvagal theory has a number of credible detractors. Here is another article in Psychology Today that provides a different perspective.

Whether you buy in to polyvagal theory or not, I stand by this week’s exercise to examine our web of social contacts and how they have changed over the years due to our new daily habits and the advancements in automation.

I hope you enjoy this week’s exercise!

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