A recent study revealed that lasting friendships, those that surpass a threshold of seven years, have a high probability of lasting a lifetime. According to Dutch sociologist Gerald Mollenhorst, the stability of friendships not only depends on personal choices but also on opportunities to maintain contact.
The study, which surveyed 1007 people aged 18 to 65, found that if a friendship manages to last beyond that number of years, the chances of it lasting a lifetime increase significantly. Over seven years, Mollenhorst followed the evolution of the respondents' friendships and discovered that while the size of social networks remains relatively stable, the individuals that make them up change constantly.
Friendship and family are considered two of the strongest bonds a person can have. A study conducted by Brigham Young University found that having close relationships can reduce the likelihood of suffering from depression and facing a lower risk of premature death. The presence of friends in difficult times provides emotional support and strengthens the sense of belonging, essential factors for psychological well-being.
Friendships formed in shared environments such as school, university, or work tend to solidify more easily, as they share similar experiences and routines. Additionally, the quality of friendship plays a significant role in individuals' mental health, according to the aforementioned study.
In summary, while some friendships are destined to be fleeting, those that manage to surpass the seven-year threshold have a great chance of being enduring. The quality of the friendship, regular contact, and shared experiences are key elements in strengthening and maintaining a friendship over time.