The Value of Male Friendships

[Bobw235]

I came across this article in today's NY Times Well section and it resonated with me, given the difficulty I've had over the years in cultivating friendships with other men. The article points out the benefits of having such relationships in terms of our long-term well-being, so I thought I'd pass it along.

 

[Falcon]

Thanks, but I don't need any help for that. I've never had any problems making/keeping male friends.

Try the military and/or a fraternal organization, such as the Elks. Maybe that will change your outlook.

 

[Bobw235]

It was interesting to read how friendships with other men impact our health in a positive way.

 

[Don M.]

It was interesting to read how friendships with other men impact our health in a positive way.

I think "Gender" friendships are a good thing. Our Daughters gave us two great Sons-in-Laws, and I like to hang out with those guys. There are a couple of older widowers in our neighborhood, and we visit back and forth regularly. My wife has a couple of good friends in town, and they get together for a long lunch every week. After nearly 51 years of marriage, we both find it a welcome change of pace to get away from each other for a few hours, and just do the "guy/girl" thing.

 

[QuickSilver]

I think men and women have same gender friendships in different ways. Women tend to want to pour out emotional cocktails to one another.. they want to talk, vent, gossip, cry.. and have someone who won't try to "fix" the situation, or offer solutions.. They just want to have someone listening.

Men on the other hand.. And I guessing, because I'm not a man, tend to have same gender friendships where they DO something together.. fish, golf, shoot hoops, bowl etc. I'm not sure they want to pour their hearts out to their buddies. So if men get older, and are limited in their activities, they may have a decrease in friendships..