Why Young people want to make friends.
- Social support: Friends provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, which can be particularly important during times of stress or difficulty. Having friends can help young people feel less alone and more connected to others.
- Identity development: Friends can help young people explore their interests and develop their sense of identity. Through friendships, they can try new things, discover their strengths and weaknesses, and figure out who they want to be.
- Skill development: Friendships can help young people develop important social skills, such as communication, empathy, and cooperation. They can also learn how to navigate conflicts and negotiate relationships with others.
- Mental health: Research has shown that having positive friendships is associated with better mental health outcomes for young people. Friends can provide a source of comfort and support, which can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
- Fun and enjoyment: Finally, friendships are simply enjoyable! Young people often have a lot of fun spending time with their friends, whether that means hanging out, playing games, or exploring new places together. These positive experiences can help boost their overall happiness and well-being.
There is plenty of research being carried out including a study By You Gov carried out in 2021 after the recent Lockdown.
How to Make Friends
We all want people to like us. You are certainly not alone in wanting to make friends. No one wants to be on their own all the time. However, if you try too hard to make people like you the chances are they will shy away from you. Why is that? Sometimes people who work at being liked can come across as ‘clingy’ or demanding. So here is some advice on how to develop into that ‘cool ‘ new you just by being yourself. And trying some different things.
Popular people are…
…generally easy to get along with. If you like them ‘that’s cool’. If you don’t like them ‘that’s cool too’ is their attitude. If you call them, ‘that’s cool’. If you don’t call them ‘that’s cool too’. Why? Because they’ve got lots of other friends. They give the impression that they know lots of people, even if they don’t. So rather than trying to make one particular friendship they make sure they get along with as many people as they can. Wondered why they look so confident? Well, that’s why. And because they look happy and relaxed, other people want to be with them.
Popular people…
- Have a friendly expression on their face most of the time
- Can say nice things to people without it sounding false
- Smile more
- Laugh at other people’s jokes
- Are kind most of the time
- Offer to help out with little things like lending a biro or picking stuff up off the floor
- Involve themselves in ‘people’ events
- Say ‘hi’ to everyone
- Are good at thinking up what other kids like to do
- Like to have fun if its available
- Are good at organising things
- Give the impression they know everyone
- Like other people to do well
- Are smart, but not full of themselves
- Are modest
Remember: Don’t try too hard to make friends. Just try your best to get along with as many people as possible. Particularly new people you meet.
