Title: Psychological Perspectives
Course: Friendship > Section: Module 9: Psychological Perspectives

Psychological Perspectives

Friendship plays a critical role in psychological well-being and personal development. Psychological research has consistently highlighted that stable and healthy friendships contribute significantly to an individual's well-being and longevity. People with friends and close confidants are generally more satisfied with their lives and are less likely to experience depression[17]. The emotional support provided by friends can help reduce stress and combat feelings of loneliness and social isolation[18]. The process of forming friendships often intersects with personality traits such as extroversion and agreeableness. These traits can facilitate interactions with strangers, making it easier to initiate and maintain friendships[19]. Moreover, friendships fulfill different roles depending on cultural contexts, serving as a dynamic aspect of human social behavior[19]. Social exchange theory provides a framework for understanding the formation and maintenance of friendships. According to this theory, social behavior is a result of an exchange process where individuals weigh the potential benefits and risks of forming relationships[20][21][22]. This cost-benefit analysis helps people decide whether to invest time and effort into building and sustaining friendships. Additionally, the impact of technology on friendships has been profound, especially among younger generations. Video games, social media, and mobile phones have become integral in how teens meet and interact with friends[23][24]. While technology offers new avenues for social connection, it also presents challenges in maintaining healthy and meaningful relationships.