Are we happier when we spend more time with others?

I think the real value of spending time with others is having a support network. I often don't do well in groups and simply don't enjoy it so I do a lot of things alone. But the major drawback is that I don't have much of a support network outside of close family. I am definitely worried that if something happens to me nobody will help me.

I found this study to be a good reference but I question how useful some of the data are for 20-30 years old people nowadays because:

1. The study started in 1938, which is a very different time comparing to today. Young people has way more options to enjoy life alone such as traveling, playing video games, watching youtube by themselves just to name a few.

2. The participants are mostly 90 years old now and it is understandable that they prefer relationship comparing to 20 years old folks nowadays.

3. Also, I don't see any information about the amount of friends. Is it the same having 1 friend vs 100 friends vs 1000 friends on facebook? Probably not.

4. Just seeing some random participants in their 70' in year 2000 saying they are more happy with friends is not really useful for people today. It would be nice to see the chart moving based on different time (2000 vs 2019) for different generation group.

5. "the search for happiness can become a source of unhappiness", is kind of depressing and confusing. Is going out with a friend consider "search for happiness"? I "can become" a billionaire buying lottery tickets, does that mean I should or shouldn't buy the ticket? It is based on the success rate and this article is missing that data.

I say you should evaluate from time to time if having friends or not (and how many) make you better or happier. I disagree that spending time with others ALWAYS make you happier. For example, I dislike traveling with large group of friends due to noise, planning and logistic issues.

My plan is to run for President or get into politics atleast. Watching all these Geezers having the time of their lives in their 70s and 80s has made up my mind. Just look at Ralf Nader, Ron Paul and Rush Limbaugh ranting and raving away with the energy of 10 year olds. It's that social mojo they are tapping into man. If I can wake up everyday troll the country, get a pat on the back from my buddies in my 90s...I think I'll die reasonably happy.

Better question: how out of touch must one be with themselves for this to even be a question?

The mark of an intellectual is curious mind is to investigate even things that seem obvious, to understand their nature.