Friendfluence : the surprising ways friends make us who we are / Carlin Flora.

Deep roots and a long reach: what is friendship?-- Finding and making friends -- Friendship in childhood: pals and nemeses -- Friendship in adolescence: confidantes and partners in crime -- The incredible perks of friendship -- Bad company: the dark side of friendship -- Screenmates: how technology affects friendship -- Making the most of friendfluence -- Epilogue.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 244-267) and index.

Examines how friends throughout a person's life can influence his or her personality, decisions, emotions, and physical health.

Just as the role of friends is expanding in our culture, Friendfluence explores their powerful and often under-appreciated influence on our personalities, habits, physical health, and even our chances of success in life. In this fascinating book, packed with the latest research findings, Carlin Flora traces friendship from its evolutionary roots to its starring role in childhood and adolescence to its subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) impact on adults—both positive and negative, online and offline. Told with warmth as well as rigor, Friendfluence not only illuminates and interprets the science of friendship but will help you reflect thoughtfully on your social history and wisely navigate your present and future friendships.