A study from 1976 tells us how and why relationships with our neighbors can be so good for us. Surprisingly to scientists at that time, results showed that connection with family members-even one's own children—had little influence on feelings of well-being or willpower. Meanwhile, friendships, especially those with neighbors, predicted lower levels of loneliness and worry, higher levels of feelings of usefulness and respect within the community.
The study suggests that acquaintance and friendship with neighbors are more effective at increasing well-being since they are based on nearness, common interests and lifestyle choices. The neighborhood relationships are also developed voluntarily. Family ties, on the other hand, are often characterized by a sense of responsibility, physical distance, and personal disharmony. Later studies confirm the importance of close friendships for people over 65, highlighting the particular importance of frequent connection.
More recent studies show that neighborly support is associated with better well-being for individuals in mid- to-late life. Data about neighborly relationships and general well-being from 1,071 adults aged 40-70 from the National Survey of Midlife Development in the US was collected in 1995, and again from the same individuals in 2005.
The study found that those who had little connection with neighbors at the time of both samples, as well as those who experienced a reduction in connection with neighbors over the years, experienced downward trends in well-being, as indicated by feelings of sadness, nervousness. restlessness, hopelessness and worthlessness.
It is important to note here the difference between friendship and neighboring or relationships with neighbors. While friendships are based on common affection, neighboring, at its core is an instrumental relationship that is catalyzed by nearness. But it doesn't have to be this way. Where neighbors are also close friends? the potential benefits are clear. While both friendship and neighboring are beneficial to well-being, they are most effective when the types of support and assistance from both coincide.
8. What does the 1976 study tell us?
A.The friendships between neighbors can last forever. |
B.People ignore neighbors more than family members. |
C.Neighbors influence people as much as their own children do. |
D.Neighbors are more influential to people than family members. |
9. How does the author mainly develop paragraph 2?
A.By analyzing data. | B.By giving instructions. |
C.By making comparisons. | D.By following the order of time. |
10. What determines neighborly relationships according to the text?
A.Nearness. | B.Responsibility. | C.Physical distance. | D.A common life goal. |
11. What is the text mainly about?
A.Why neighbors always help us. | B.Why our neighbors are so important. |
C.How neighborly support is available. | D.How neighborly relationships develop well. |