Revealed: What Young People In Northern Ireland Think About Friendships

This article first appeared here in Business Eye in August 2025.

Local research consultancy FN Research has released new research findings that uncover what friendships mean to young people in Northern Ireland and the results show a generation deeply valuing connection, but also facing real challenges in maintaining it.

The research, based on in-depth interviews and a survey of young adults aged 18-34 across Greater Belfast, reveals that 83% of respondents said friendships are “very important” to them. Those currently in university were worried about how to maintain those relationships as life moves on post-university.

FN Research Managing Director, Fiona Norman, said: “We often hear about loneliness among young people, but this research really puts into perspective the reasons behind it. From the cost of socialising to pressures from social media, it’s clear that meaningful friendship is both highly valued and increasingly difficult to maintain. As a local business, we want this research to help spark action from universities, workplaces and even brands to support better connection opportunities.”

Common concerns included the cost of living, with many saying it’s harder to meet up or travel to see friends. One respondent said: “The city’s got too expensive for people, so they’re moving back home or further away.”

Another recurring issue was the lack of affordable alcohol-free social spaces, with 51% of respondents identifying this as a barrier to building and maintaining friendships. There’s also a clear sense of anxiety around transitioning into adult life, where work schedules, new locations, and less time make forming deep connections harder.

Interestingly, 28% also felt pressure to do ‘postable’ activities – fun, Instagram-friendly outings – suggesting that social media may be shaping the way friendships are experienced and expressed.