Soft Socializing is the Newest Social Trend

VICE turned to Assistant Professor of Psychology and Counseling Robert Alexander, Ph.D., for insight on a new socializing trend known as ‘soft socializing.’

Ideal for those who find themselves burned out after social situations, Alexander shared how low-pressure activities like walks, coffee dates, and creative hangouts can help people connect without burning out. 

“Many social settings are organized around performance: people often feel like they need to be interesting or responsive,” said Alexander. “But soft socializing shifts the goal from performing to being present.”

Alexander described that soft socializing activities can help people feel safe and like they truly belong — which can mean the difference between feeling restored by an event and feeling depleted.