5.1: Introduction to Social Relationships

Humans are intended to be social creatures.  Our lives are enriched by interacting with others.  Social groups are fundamental units of human society, consisting of two or more individuals who interact regularly and share a sense of identity or common purpose. Social groups influence behavior, shape norms and values, and contribute to the development of social identity. 

The Significance of Social Context

According to self-determination theory, our success and well-being are maximized when we balance our needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness (Ryan and Deci, 2000). These aspects of developmental well-being are interrelated and can influence each other in complex ways. For example, a new job might bring financial independence, which increases your autonomy, and opportunities for professional development that increase your competence. But it might also require you to relocate or spend less time with friends and family, which decreases your relatedness. So just as we must revisit and recalibrate aspects of the self to fit the developmental tasks of the moment, so too must we renegotiate our relationships with friends and family in the context of our goals and emerging independence.

Social groups are foundational to human development and socialization, serving as the primary settings where individuals learn how to form and maintain relationships. Among the most influential are family, peers, and friends. The family is typically the first social group we encounter, teaching us basic communication, emotional expression, and social norms—for example, children often learn how to resolve conflict or express affection by observing their parents. As individuals grow, peer groups become increasingly important, especially during adolescence, offering a space to explore identity, gain social approval, and practice cooperation and competition. For instance, teenagers may learn about loyalty and group dynamics through school clubs or sports teams. Friendship groups, which are often chosen rather than assigned, provide emotional support, trust, and companionship. A college student, for example, might rely on close friends to navigate academic stress or personal challenges. These groups not only shape our understanding of relationships but also influence our values, behaviors, and sense of belonging throughout life.

In addition to shaping our understanding of relationships, social groups play a vital role in psychological adjustment and overall mental well-being. Supportive family environments can foster resilience, self-esteem, and emotional regulation, which are crucial for coping with stress and adversity. For example, individuals who experience consistent emotional support from family members are often better equipped to manage anxiety and depression. Peer and friendship groups also contribute significantly to psychological health by providing a sense of belonging and acceptance. Positive peer interactions can enhance self-confidence and reduce feelings of isolation, while close friendships offer a safe space for emotional expression and validation. In contrast, the absence of supportive social groups or exposure to negative group dynamics—such as bullying or exclusion—can lead to increased psychological distress. Thus, the quality and stability of our social group connections are closely linked to our ability to adapt, thrive, and maintain mental health throughout different stages of life.