“Best friend” is a term that seems to have been invented in the twentieth century, perhaps even in the second half of that century. My parents never used the term “best friend,” but my friends and I ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Dr. Tracy Brower writes about joy, community and the future of work. Having a good friend is one of the best things you can do for ...

In an April 2025 study from the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, researchers asked 940 adults in romantic relationships to name their seven closest friends. However, they left one thing ...

A person’s social network can be surprisingly complex. Yet, we think we only need a romantic partner and a nuclear family. Maybe one good friend. Otherwise, those not legally or biologically fastened ...

Friendship is one of those things that can really make or break your day. A good friend is like a lifeline, always there when you need them the most. But sometimes, it's hard to tell if someone is ...