Researchers say we’re talking less than ever

2026-04-25 · Source: The Verge · Field: Science & Research — Social Sciences & Behavioral Studies · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Researchers from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Arizona found a nearly 28 percent decline in the number of words people speak out loud to another human between 2005 and 2019. Analyzing data from 22 studies involving over 2,000 participants who recorded their daily lives, the study revealed that the average daily spoken words dropped from 16,632 in 2005 to approximately 11,900 by 2019. This reduction is attributed to increased reliance on apps, texting, and online interactions. The trend suggests a potential for fewer than 10,000 words spoken daily now, with younger individuals under 25 showing a slightly greater annual decline (451 words) compared to those over 25 (314 words). Concerns include psychological effects like loneliness and the erosion of basic conversational skills.

Key takeaway

For individuals concerned about declining social skills or increased loneliness, actively seeking out and engaging in face-to-face conversations is crucial. Your intentional efforts to speak more with others can help counteract the observed trend of reduced verbal interaction and preserve essential conversational abilities, such as not interrupting.

Key insights

Human verbal interaction has significantly declined since 2005, impacting psychological well-being and social skills.

Principles

• Digital communication reduces spoken word count.
• Younger demographics show greater decline in verbal interaction.

Method

Researchers analyzed audio recordings from 22 studies, tracking daily spoken word counts from over 2,000 individuals between 2005 and 2019 to quantify changes in verbal interaction.

In practice

• Prioritize in-person conversations.
• Limit reliance on text-based communication.

Topics

• Verbal Communication Decline
• Human Interaction Research
• Digital Communication Trends
• Psychological Effects
• Conversational Skills

Best for: General Interest, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by The Verge.