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Unique Ways in Which the Quality of Friendships Matter for Life Satisfaction

Author

Listed:
  • Victor Kaufman

    (University of California, Los Angeles)

  • Anthony Rodriguez

    (University of California, Los Angeles
    RAND Corporation)

  • Lisa C. Walsh

    (University of California, Los Angeles)

  • Edward Shafranske

    (Pepperdine University)

  • Shelly P. Harrell

    (Pepperdine University)

Abstract

The quality of individuals’ social relationships consistently predicts greater well-being. But little is known about the relative importance of different relationship types for life satisfaction, including the relative importance of friendships compared to other types of relationships. Some have theorized that one intimate relationship is all you need. However, romantic partners, family, and friends may contribute uniquely or interactively to well-being. The current study assessed life satisfaction and relationship satisfaction in survey data collected from a large, diverse sample of respondents. Satisfaction with each type of relationship was significantly and independently associated with life satisfaction, over and above other variables in the model. Friendship (not family) interacted with intimate relationships: when respondents were highly satisfied with their intimate relationships, they were happy with their lives regardless of friendship quality. But when they were unhappy with their intimate relationships, they were only happy with their lives if they had good friends.

Suggested Citation

  • Victor Kaufman & Anthony Rodriguez & Lisa C. Walsh & Edward Shafranske & Shelly P. Harrell, 2022. "Unique Ways in Which the Quality of Friendships Matter for Life Satisfaction," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 23(6), pages 2563-2580, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:23:y:2022:i:6:d:10.1007_s10902-022-00502-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-022-00502-9
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    References listed on IDEAS

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