A Lonely Generation? Understanding Loneliness and Togetherness in the Emotional Geographies of Millennials

This proposed study sets out to explore millennial loneliness. It will interrogate claims that the millennial generation is the loneliest one, examining the paradox of loneliness in an increasingly 'wired up' generation and explore the entanglement of 'real world' and 'virtual' relationships. It will critically engage with how meaningful relationships are developed and maintained alongside the increased use of internet and social media. It will draw on literature surrounding emotional geographies, togetherness and relationality. Situating itself within a relational theoretical framework, this project will place the role of relationships at the centre of its concerns. Based in County Durham, this study will explore the particular social geographies of the area in order to understand the melding of 'real' and 'virtual' relationships and experiences. Intended as an explorative study, this project will utilise qualitative methods to produce rich, subjective data and draw out the emotional geographies of millennials. Data will be collected in two stages: focus groups will be conducted to draw out the broader themes, followed by individual life story interviews to uncover the emotional accounts and experiences of the participants. With growing awareness of how loneliness can be detrimental to physical and mental health, this project will be a timely addition to the gap in geographic literature. As loneliness is more commonly understand as an issue for older generations, this research will provide real policy relevance for understanding rising loneliness in younger people.