Chapter Five: Middle Years

Question 1

Stages in Children’s Concepts of Friendship

Answer 1

(0) Momentary Physical Attraction 3-6 years
(1) One-Way Assistance 5-9 years
(2) Fair-Weather Cooperation 7-12 years
(3) Intimate and Mutual Sharing 10-15 years
(4) Autonomous Interdependence 12 and above

Question 2

Momentary Physical Attraction

Answer 2

Friendship Stage 1
Ages 3-6
Children remain egocentric. Their concept of a friend is one who likes to play with the same things and lives nearby.

Question 3

One-Way Assistance

Answer 3

Friendship Stage 2
Ages 5-9
Children are less egocentric, but view a friend as someone who does what they want.

Question 4

Fair-Weather Cooperation

Answer 4

Friendship Stage 3
Ages 7-12
Friends are viewed as doing things for one another, but the focus remains on self interest.

Question 5

Intimate and Mutual Sharing

Answer 5

Friendship Stage 4
Ages 10-15
The focus is on the relationship rather than on the individuals separately. Friendship is viewed as providing mutual support over a long period of time.

Question 6

Autonomous Interdependence

Answer 6

Friendship Stage 5
Ages 12 and above
Children (adolescents, and adults) understand that friendships grow and change as people change and that they may need different friends to satisfy different needs.