Has it ever occurred to you why certain friendships endure while others end? The solution is in science! Gerald Mollenhorst, a sociologist, found that every seven years, people lose around half of their social circle because of life changes. However, if your friendship endures beyond seven years, it is likely to endure forever.
Since they offer emotional stability, trust, and direction, enduring friendships are more than merely passing acquaintances. Seven essential elements that contribute to the longevity of friendships are also highlighted by evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar: common language, upbringing, professions, interests, opinions, humor, and even musical preferences. A friend’s bond is stronger if you share more of these traits.
What, then, makes a friendship last longer than seven years? It boils down to teamwork, according to experts. Friends are more likely to stick together if they communicate frequently, adjust to life changes, and encourage one another during good times and bad. Another factor is technology; social media and instant messaging have made it simpler than ever to keep up friendships over vast distances.
Having a reliable, long-term friend is uncommon and valuable in a society where connections can be short-lived. Consider yourself fortunate if you have had a friend for more than seven years; you may be on the verge of a lifelong friendship!
