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The Nature of Friendship

Friendships are both delicate and deep

Like family and romantic bonds, friendship plays a crucial role in our lives. Friendship is an important source of emotional security and self-esteem (Rawlins, 1992). Friendship facilitates a sense of belonging when we’re young, helps solidify our identity during adolescence, and provides satisfaction and social support when we’re elderly (Miller, Hefner, & Scott, 2007). But what exactly is friendship?