Importance of Social Relationships
Relationships are incredibly important at any age. As humans, social interaction is essential to every aspect of our health. We are social beings. Stable relationships with friends and families are especially important for young people as they can influence physical health, promote self-esteem, a sense of belonging and help develop new skills.
There are many benefits of maintaining and developing new social relationships (making new friends).
These include –
• Learning new skills
• Problem solving and decision making.
• Creative and critical thinking.
• Collaboration, communication and negotiation.
• Researching and evaluating information.
• Flexibility and adaptability.
• Opportunities
• Increases social networks.
• Builds employment and career networks.
• Increases aspirations.
• Gives sense of purpose and value.
• Contributes to ongoing community participation.
• Knowledge
• Improves engagement in learning and academic achievement.
• Strengthens understanding of local history.
• Increases knowledge of community issues and cultures.
• Builds social awareness and responsibility.
• Increases empathy and respect for older people’s experiences and achievements.
• Health and wellbeing
• Improves physical and mental health.
• Gives a sense of belonging.
• Builds resilience, optimism, positivity and enjoyment of life.
• Increases access to trusted adults.
• Diverts from violence, anti-social and risk-taking behaviour.