Are Long Term Friendships Better For A Healthy Life?

Long Term Friendships

We have come across multiple evidences of community or herd movements all throughout history. From prehistoric period to contemporary times, there has always existed a sense of togetherness and community, which proves human’s desire for social interactions. Humanity's survival depended on the development of social skills and interdependence. Human society is a functionalist society, as pointed out by the French sociologist, Emile Durkheim. Thus, humans have always been conditioned to developed interdependence towards other humans. Our entire race strives and survives on socialization. History is thus an evidence of a human’s need for friendship and social life.

Friendships are developed at an early stage. Human brain is wired for reinforcement and acceptance that allows us to hinge ourselves to our peers, which in turn helps develop interactions and boost our social skills. These interactions, at times lead to lifelong friendship, that lasts for years. The study (published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine in 2007) suggests that friendships and interactions help in maintaining a lower pulse and blood pressure. It also indicates positive effects on overall physical health. A study by Pablo Vandenabeele, Clinical Director for Mental Health at Bupa UK, also suggest that having a healthy, positive relationship with friends is an important influence on our emotional and mental wellbeing. Human seek acceptance and look for solidarity in form of friendship. Early friendships and relationships are an indication of our experiences and our outlook on life. Friendships in childhood and adolescence define our future establishments and define our social skills. Thus, it is crucial for a child to develop early friendship, as it will ensure stimulations, growth and overall development of the child.

 

 

Childhood experiences molds and adds into our future experiences. Friendships, no doubt, enrich our experiences and ensure emotional and physical wellbeing. However, the consequences of looking for acceptance and constant alienation, can also develop a sense of isolation, and thus affect our self -esteem. The consequences of over indulging and dependence can also, in turn, make us socially inept and incapable of individual growth. Also, the separation anxiety caused because of a conflict in the relationship, can also have a negative impact on our outlook and consciences.

 

 

Besser für ein gesundes Leben?