In the context of our relationships, certainly our friends occupy a special place. And it is about them that we will talk, in celebration of the recently celebrated "Friendship Day," on July 20th.
We can consider that friendship is a great manifestation of love. In fact, its etymology - from the Latin amicus; friend - possibly derived from amore; to love.
It is a feeling that we inherit from our ancestors. There is evidence that some animal species such as horses, elephants, dolphins, monkeys, and chimpanzees form pairs and groups that relate for years (1). Social behavior, besides its evolutionary origin, is influenced by genetic, environmental, and cultural factors. Regarding the genetic factor, we highlight the importance of the genes involved in the production of the neuropeptides oxytocin and vasopressin. These neuropeptides consist of an ancestral inheritance of approximately 500 million years and deserve emphasis among the numerous neuropeptides involved in the modulation of social behavior (2).
Studies with oxytocin administered to humans show the positive influence of this neuropeptide on social behavior related to trust, generosity, altruism, and aversion to betrayal. Studies related to vasopressin show that it facilitates social connection through the modulation of processes associated with reward and motivation, which involve the circuits regulated by dopamine in the nucleus accumbens (2).
It is also worth highlighting the importance of serotonin for social relationships. Studies in primates show that high levels of serotonin favor the reduction of aggression and increase cooperativeness, and studies in both humans and animals show that serotonin positively influences social interaction and cooperation among people (2).
Therefore, it is already scientifically proven that we all possess the biological foundations to develop and maintain social relationships and friendships. It is also necessary to have attitude and goodwill.
In the previous post, we saw to what extent an intimate friend can influence our happiness and vice versa, and we also saw that this influence occurs when there is proximity.
In light of this, it is worth some reflections: Have I sought to be close to my friends? Do I set aside time to share my life, engage in dialogue, listen, and support those I love?
"A faithful friend is a powerful protection: whoever has found one has discovered a treasure” (Ecclesiasticus: 6:14).
References:
Seyfarth RM, Cheney DL. The evolutionary origins of friendship. Annu Ver. Psychol. 2012 Jan 10;63:153-77;
Skuse DH, Gallagher L. Genetic influences on social cognition. Pediatr Res.2011 May;69(5 Pt 2):85R-91R. Review;
Image available at: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/agree-terms.php. Image name: Girl And Boy With Gift Box.
