The report into friendship showed that our social circle peaks at 26 years and seven months, at which we typically have five close friends.

 

Women are most popular at 25 years and 10 months, with men hitting the friendship high point a little later at 27 years and three months.

 

The research, by greetings card firm Forever Friends, shows that a third of adults (36 per cent) met their closest friends while at school with a fifth (22 per cent) saying they met them at work.

 

Social networks such as Facebook and Twitter now also play a major role in nurturing² new friendships.

 

The study found that 25 to 34-year-olds make 22 friends via Facebook, compared to 18 to 24-year-olds who make 12, and 35 to 44-year-olds who will have made just four.

 

Forever Friends relationship coach Sam Owen said: 'It is no coincidence that over a third of us meet our best friends at school.

 

'It is a key time in our lives where friendships are grown through sharing notes, giving gifts, seeing each other regularly and laughing a lot.

 

'As adults we can often forget how powerful these small things are and how the little things can make a difference. Small gestures are just as important as big ones.

 

'With growing external³ pressures being put on friendships these days, it's important to nurture⁴ and make time for our friendships.

 

'If we could only do one additional⁵ thing a week to show we care and love our friends, it would create a stronger framework⁶ for the future.'

点击收听单词发音