A Conceptual Guide to Friendship Formation

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Abstract
Treating friendship formation as a subclass of interpersonal attraction, this paper suggests the relevant dependent variables and definitional elements in friendship states and presents a conceptual guide to models of friendship formation. Two dimensions considered crucial for the friendship state are (1) commitment or loyalty which may be viewed as a continuum of resistance to dissolution of the relationship and (2) mutual desire to explore intra-individual behaviors as well as vital aspects of the relationship. Variables considered relevant to the second dimension include: (a) a tendency to accept aspects of the negative self-concept of the other, (b) a willingness to risk self-disclosure, (c) an attempt mutually to fulfill needs, and (d) a mutual modification of constructs, attitudes, and values. Within the general area of interpersonal relations and group behavior, friendship formation focuses on select dynamics and antecedents of dyadic attraction. Importance of physical and social proximity is recognized. Four models are presented as all inclusive, but not mutually exclusive: (1) incremental, (2) shared stress, (3) perceived similarity, and (4) perceived need complementarity.

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