Psychology study challenges assumed trade-off between friendship size and intimacy

The short version

• A series of five studies led by researcher Jessica Ayers indicates that people can concurrently seek large social networks and deep emotional intimacy.[Scientific American]
• The findings challenge evolutionary biology frameworks that assume an inherent trade-off between social network size and emotional depth.[Scientific American]
• Ayers reported that seeking emotional closeness often correlated with lower perceived relationship quality, reflecting possible unmet social needs.[Scientific American]

Key facts

• Researchers conducted five studies in the U.S., the Philippines, Egypt, and Brazil to evaluate social preferences.[Scientific American]
• The research indicated that individuals can simultaneously want both a large network of friends and emotionally close relationships.[Scientific American]
• Participants who preferred larger networks tended to possess more friends willing to offer assistance.[Scientific American]
• Individuals who favored deep emotional intimacy frequently reported lower overall quality in their existing friendships.[Scientific American]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• The science of friendship and lonelinessScientific American metered