The Day-to-Day Functioning of Close versus Casual Friendships

Abstract

Sixty five undergraduates maintained daily records of their interactions with two same-sexed target friends (one casual friend and one close friend) for a one week period. Data concerned structural (e.g. time, location, initiator) and functional (e.g. degree to which various costs and benefits were experienced, perceived effect of the interaction) aspects of the interactions. Compared to casual friends, close friends were found to interact more frequently, to interact across a greater range of settings and to describe their interactions as being more exclusive and providing more benefits (particularly emotional and informational support). Social exchange dynamics were found to vary for casual versus close friendships. Most strikingly, costs appeared to be weighted more heavily when interacting with casual friends than with close friends. However, for both close and casual dyads, the amount of fun and relaxation experienced with one's friend was the variable most correlated with evaluations of friendship progression. Gender differences in interaction patterns also emerged.