Friends Chapter 20

Qualities of Friendship Strong friendships are based on common interests, caring, empathy, respect, dependability, forgiveness, and reciprocity. Empathy is the ability to identify with and understand someone else’s feelings. Reciprocity means there is a mutual exchange.

Making Friends Making new friends is often difficult, but sometimes it’s the only choice you have. Good places: school activities, volunteering, church For a friendship to begin, one person needs to take the first step. 3

Making Friends True friendships take effort and commitment. Friendships end for a variety of reasons, but it is important to know how to handle rejection.

Diversity in Friendships Diversity in your friendships can enrich your life. Make an effort to appreciate the diversity of your friends. Appreciating their diversity is a sign of maturity.

When Friendships End Friendships can end when certain changes occur in your or your friend’s lives. It is sometimes necessary and acceptable to end a friendship.

When Friendships End Changes occur when friends grow apart, move away, or develop different interests. Other changes that can end friendships are conflict, jealousy, or deliberate action. You can either ease out of a relationship gradually or directly approach the friend.

Peer Relationship Problems Learn how to deal with peer relationship problems. Cliques, small, exclusive groups that restrict who can join, can pressure their members and be hurtful. Gangs promote distrust and hatred of outsiders.

Peer Relationship Problems Harassment in any form should not be tolerated. Some peer pressure can be positive when friends encourage you to do well. Peer pressure is negative when you feel pushed to engage in harmful activities.