The power of friendship gets stronger with age and may even be more important than family relationships, indicates new research by a Michigan State University scholar. Not only that, but in older adults, friendships are actually a stronger predictor of health and happiness than relationships with family members.

Is it better to have friends or family?

People need people. However, if forced to choose which is more important, American researchers now say friendship is more important than family. Their new study suggests that friends may be more important than family members, especially as we age. The study comes from researchers at Michigan State University.

Is friends more important than family?

Family is important—but good friendships may be more important for your health and happiness in the long run, according to a pair of studies from Michigan State University. The first study found that both family and friends make us happy, but that friendships were a stronger predictor of well-being at later ages.

Can a family member be your friend?

Family members can also be considered friends. There is no rule stating that a family member cant also be a friend. You may have a cousin close in age, a sibling who you consider to be a best friend, or another family member who you feel like you can truly confide in.

Can a friend be family?

You cant choose your family, but you can most definitely choose your friends. The old saying that friends are like family is very true, because your closest friends are those that have been there for you through everything. They know you better than your own family, and they will always be completely honest with you.

What Does friends like family mean?

people who are not related to you but are your very close friends and are as important to you as your family. Friends are increasingly becoming our framily as we search for another support network

Can a friend be a family member?

Do Family Members Count as Friends? Family members can also be considered friends. There is no rule stating that a family member cant also be a friend. You may have a cousin close in age, a sibling who you consider to be a best friend, or another family member who you feel like you can truly confide in.