Friendship is an important concept that has been studied extensively in various fields such as sociology, psychology, and anthropology. It refers to a close bond between individuals characterized by trust, affection, mutual support, and shared interests. Traditionally, friendships have been seen as being between two people of the same gender who share similar values and interests.
Recent research has shown that friends can also come from different backgrounds, races, ethnicities, cultures, and genders. This paper will explore how theories of friendship can be applied to understand queer chosen families, non-traditional intimacies, and relational networks beyond heteronormative frameworks.
The concept of friendship is closely related to the idea of belongingness. In his theory of socialization, John Bowlby suggests that humans need to form attachments with other people in order to survive. He argues that these attachments are based on emotional bonds and are necessary for survival. According to him, when people feel safe and secure in their relationships, they are more likely to develop healthy attachments. This means that friendship is essential for mental and physical wellbeing.
In addition to this, friendship has been linked to happiness and life satisfaction. Studies have shown that having strong friendships is associated with increased levels of positive affect (e.g., joy, excitement) and decreased levels of negative affect (e.g., stress, anxiety). Friendship is also linked to better physical health outcomes such as lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease.
There is a growing awareness that not all friendships fit into traditional models.
Some studies suggest that women tend to have more complex and diverse relationships than men do. They may have multiple close friends rather than one best friend.
There is evidence that friends of color may experience racial microaggressions that can negatively impact their wellbeing. These findings suggest that traditional theories of friendship may not fully account for the diversity of friendships that exist today.
Non-traditional forms of intimacy include polyamorous relationships, open marriages, and non-monogamous partnerships. These arrangements challenge traditional ideas about love and commitment and blur the lines between sexual and platonic relationships. In terms of queer chosen families, these families are made up of individuals who choose each other over biological family ties. They often come together because of shared values and interests rather than blood relations. Theories of friendship may be useful in understanding how members of these families form close bonds despite not being related by blood.
Relational networks beyond heteronormative frameworks include communities of people who identify as LGBTQIA+ or other marginalized groups. These communities often face discrimination and oppression based on their identities.
They also create support systems and communities that allow them to thrive. Researchers can use theories of friendship to understand how these communities develop strong connections with each other.
Theories of friendship can provide valuable insights into different types of relationships. By exploring the links between friendship and belongingness, happiness, health outcomes, and identity, we can better understand how people form close bonds with others outside of traditional models. This may reveal new ways of creating community and strengthening relationships in the future.