Answer to Question 1
Three broad themes characterize both face-to-face and online friendships. The first is the affective, or emotional, basis of friendship. Friendships involve self-disclosure and expressions of appreciation, affection, and support. Friendships are based on the principles of trust, loyalty, and commitment. The second theme is the shared, or communal, nature of friendship. Friends participate in common activities or interests or support the activities and interests of the other. Finally, the third theme is sociability and compatibility. This theme relates to how our friends are sources of amusement, recreation, and fun.
Answer to Question 2
Women's and men's friendships in adulthood are different and reflect patterns of gendered friendships learned in childhood. Women tend to base their friendships on intimacy and emotional sharing. Women use friendship as a way to confide in others. For example, women get together socially to discuss personal matters. On the other hand, men's friendships tend to be based on common interests. For example, men getting together with friends might include watching or participating in sports.
