Do age differences matter in close and casual friendships?: A comparison of age discrepant and age peer friendships

While research has investigated various aspects of friendship, relatively little is known about friendships that develop between people of different ages. Relational qualities in 45 close and 18 casual friendships between age peer and age discrepant friends (friends differing in age by at least 10 years) were examined. In close friendships, age peer relationships were experienced more “intensely”; than age discrepant relationships. Feelings related to companionship, satisfaction, intimacy, nurturance, and reliable alliance were significantly greater in age peer close friendships. In casual friendships, age discrepant friends were rated significantly higher than age peer friends in the category of admiration.