Why Etiquette Matters:
Facts & Figures
Below are snapshots of how etiquette—or lack thereof—is affecting us today.
Americans agree on something
91% of Americans agree that a lack of respect and courtesy is a growing problem in the country.
We’re talking less than we used to
Between 2005 and 2019, the number of words spoken by the average person in a day fell by 28%. The drop was steepest for those under 25.
Aggressive driving surged in the past decade
Researchers from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found 96% of drivers reported engaging in aggressive driving or road rage behaviors at least once in the past year. They also found that road etiquette and manners were a protective factor against aggressive driving.
Student behavior is driving teacher burnout
52% of teachers cited managing student behavior as their source of job‑related stress. This was the #1 reason for teacher burnout, outpacing low pay and working outside of contract hours.
We’re sharing fewer meals together
Over 26% of Americans now eat most of their meals alone. The time to socialize, strengthen bonds, and practice etiquette has dwindled.
Researchers piloted the first telehealth etiquette curriculum in 2026
Prosocial conduct boosts our mood
Business etiquette training is booming
The Business Etiquette Training Market was valued at USD 28 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 102 billion by 2032.
Penmanship is good for our brain
Researchers in 2023 found calligraphic handwriting can not only induce a flow state and pleasure, but should be considered as a tool for mental health protection. In another study, cursive writing was shown to recruit broader neural networks compared with block-letter writing.