The Impact of Same-Sex Friendships on the Weil-Being of Women

Abstract

This paper serves to examine the importance of friendships in the lives of women by (1) analyzing existent literature pertaining to theoretical and historical perspectives, and (2) reviewing the literature addressing the impact of friendship on the well-being of women. Examination of the literature indicates that women who maintain friendships with other women can be positively impacted by these relationships. In taking a holistic view, it appears that friendship relationships often lead to heightened mental, physiological, and sociological well-being, whereas absence of friendships has been linked to loneliness, depression, and psychosomatic illness. The findings, implications for therapists, and limitations of research are addressed.

Key Words:

• Women
• friendship
• well-being