Poor Social Skills Might Also Lead To Poor Physical Health (Study)

COUNCIL CHRONICLE – In addition to leading to depression and anxiety, having poor social skills can also lead to diminishing physical health, claims the latest research.

A recent study suggests that people who cannot communicate and interact with others effectively are more at risk of developing mental as well as physical problems. Researchers have found that factors such as loneliness and stress are the common variables that link poor social skills to declining physical health.

While studies on the effects of stress on the body have consistently shown a correlation with poor physical health, loneliness is a more recently discovered risk factor.

Published in the medical journal Health Communications, a study was conducted to examine the relationship between stress and loneliness as an experience and their effects on the physical health.

During the study, 775 adults, aged in between 18 to 91, were surveyed. An analysis of the data revealed a strong connection between weak, underdeveloped social skills, the experience of stress and loneliness, and poor physical health.

Scientists have identified the incessant use of technology, such as texting, as an active deterrent in preventing the development of healthy social skills in young people. Additionally, they note that people who lack well-developed, appropriate social skills might also have a want in their capacity to be socially aware.

This is a factor that further increases the experience of stress due to not experiencing meaningful interactions and being left in a perpetual state of disappointment and disarray.

In fact, the researchers assert that the severity of the risks associated with stress and loneliness is on par with obesity, lack of exercise, eating a diet high in fat, and smoking.