With or without you: Understanding friendship dissolution from childhood through young adulthood

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Developmental Science

Background:

• Friendship is crucial for lifelong well-being.
• Understanding friendship dissolution is vital for social and emotional health.
• Existing research highlights instability in adolescent friendships but less in adulthood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on friendship dissolution from childhood to young adulthood.
• To detail the prevalence, causes, and mechanisms of friendship termination.
• To discuss the implications and future research directions in friendship dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on friendship dissolution.
• Analysis of factors influencing friendship stability and termination.
• Synthesis of research on the diverse ways friendships end.

Main Results:

• Friendships are notably unstable during childhood and adolescence.
• Individual characteristics, friendship qualities, and social contexts influence stability.
• Friendship endings vary in timing, communication, and intent, impacting outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Friendship dissolution is common and influenced by multiple factors.
• Further research is needed on friendship processes, marginalized groups, and technology's role.
• Interventions promoting high-quality friendships are essential for well-being.