This talk will be presented by Associate Professor Cheryl Harasymchuk, from the Department of Psychology.

Relationships are fundamental for our health and well-being. Indeed, people with higher quality relationships tend to have greater life satisfaction and lower mortality rates. Although romantic relationships usually take the spotlight, scholars have argued that friendships are an important source of social connection and well-being. In this talk, Dr. Harasymchuk will first define friendship and include a discussion about differences as a function of gender, culture, and online context. In the second part of the talk, Dr. Harasymchuk will answer the question, ‘What makes for a satisfying friendship?’ and describe evidence linking friendship with physical and psychological well-being.

Mental Health Speaker Series

This session is part of the Healthy Workplace Mental Health Speaker Series 2021/2022. Find out more.