Adults Need Seven Specific Types of Friends
A St. Louis publication outlines a practical framework for building a diverse social circle, from the early leaver to the empathetic listener.
By Luana Sato ·
Building a meaningful social circle requires more than just proximity or shared history.
The St. Louis Jewish Light published a guide on November 9 that breaks down the specific roles different people play in an adult’s life. The article argues that while children form friendships with simple ease on the playground, adults must be more intentional. The piece suggests that a healthy social network functions like a curated collection, where each friend fulfills a distinct purpose.
The first recommended type is the person who does not make excuses for a low social battery. This is the companion who is ready to leave an event early, allowing the host to slip away before the night ends. The second type embodies the philosophy of Ann Landers, who noted that trouble usually starts out like fun. This friend is the partner for adventures that may turn into escapades, providing a story to tell later. The third type is a competitive ally in group activities. This person plays not just to win, but to ensure the opponent does not win. In a game of mahjong, they might hold onto a specific tile to block a rival, prioritizing defense over victory.
The remaining four categories focus on personality and support. The fourth type is the shopper who buys the small extra item rather than exercising restraint. The fifth type is someone fundamentally different from the individual, serving as a diversifier for the friend portfolio. The sixth is a perky and funny companion who brings joy and cheer, described as a human antidepressant. The seventh type is the empathetic listener who offers sage advice and helps heal past wounds.
The article concludes by suggesting a toast to these relationships. It references a rhyme about ships to celebrate the bond between friends. The guide encourages readers to identify these seven archetypes in their current social circles or to seek them out in new interactions.
This framework positions friendship as a set of functional roles rather than a monolithic bond. By identifying the specific needs of a social life, the publication offers a checklist for adults to assess their networks. The advice moves beyond general platitudes about loyalty and instead points to observable behaviors like early departures, defensive game play, and impulsive purchases.
