Why Your Parents Had Better Friendships Than You (It’s Not What You Think)

Your parents might have had better friendships than you, and it’s not necessarily because they were more outgoing or had more free time. The reasons behind this can be quite surprising and are rooted in how society and personal dynamics have evolved over time.

Firstly, when your parents were growing up, social connections were often more straightforward. They typically made friends with people they met in school, at work, or through community activities. These friendships were often built on shared experiences and a sense of belonging to a specific group or community. In contrast, today’s world is more complex, with people moving frequently for work or education, and social media playing a significant role in how we interact. This can make forming deep, lasting friendships more challenging.

Another factor is the way friendships are perceived and valued in modern society. In the past, friendships were often seen as a natural part of life, similar to family relationships. People didn’t have to “work” at making friends as much because social structures and community norms encouraged these connections. Today, with increased mobility and the rise of individualism, friendships require more effort to maintain and deepen.

Moreover, the way we form friendships has changed. In the past, people often had friends from different age groups, which provided a broader perspective on life. Older friends could offer wisdom and experience, while younger friends brought energy and new ideas. This intergenerational aspect of friendships is less common today, as people tend to socialize more with peers of similar ages.

Lastly, the concept of friendship itself has evolved. While your parents might have had friendships that were more straightforward and less complicated, modern friendships often involve more emotional labor. People are encouraged to be more introspective and communicative in their relationships, which can be both rewarding and exhausting. This shift towards deeper, more meaningful connections can sometimes make it harder to form and maintain friendships.

In essence, the differences in friendships between generations are not just about personality or lifestyle but also about societal changes and how we approach relationships. Understanding these differences can help us appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities of forming meaningful friendships in today’s world.