As students enter high school and meet new people, their friend groups can vary in size. Some prefer having more people to connect with, while others choose tighter circles of friends. Prioritizing the quality of relationships over quantity, however, is important to consider.
Having a small group of friends is beneficial for improving communication and forming a stable support system. When a person spends more time and effort to maintain a relationship, they are more likely to build a foundation of trust and mutual understanding. This openness allows for a comfortable environment to engage in meaningful conversations. Better communication in times of conflict can lead to a stronger bond by helping individuals find common ground.
During periods of hardship, a secure safety net of reliable people is crucial in promoting personal growth and keeping one afloat. A study conducted by The PubMed Central concluded that social support networks made up of family and friends are most likely to help individuals perceive stress more positively. Most people tend to go to friends when faced with difficult situations, and this is often reflected in their response to their obstacles.
Prioritizing the quality of friendships also decreases chances of developing health issues.
A 2006 study by the Gerontological Society of America showed that adults over the age of 60 with a closer circle of family and friends were less prone to depression. On one hand, without stable relationships to rely on, individuals can suffer from feelings of unworthiness, low self-esteem and anxiety.
On the other hand, strong friendships allow a person to feel a sense of purpose and belonging, according to Carle Health. Instead of chasing after acceptance from people who do not understand one’s worth, a meaningful group of friends can foster a boost in morale and help an individual understand their own value.
In addition, long lasting connections can also pave the way for personal growth. Close friends are usually the ones to give honest feedback and help someone become more accountable for their actions. Honesty and trust are key aspects to keeping a friendship afloat.
While it may not always be wanted at the time, honesty is another way for a relationship to deepen. It can help people understand different perspectives and understand their own emotions better.
Although networking and exposing oneself to different communities are important, it is easy to get lost in superficial relationships and peer acceptance. Instead, finding a balance between spreading one’s social sphere while also prioritizing the people who matter makes it possible to address both short and long-term social needs.