In the context of children's development, which of the following statements about friendship is true?

• A. Children do not form meaningful friendships until adolescence.
• B. Friendships in early childhood are often based on shared activities and proximity.
• C. Friendship quality does not impact children's social or emotional development.
• D. Children's friendships are always stable and unchanging throughout childhood.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of friendship in child development. Friendships in early childhood are typically based on shared activities and physical proximity rather than deep emotional bonds.
2. Step 2: Recognize that meaningful friendships can and do form before adolescence, contrary to the statement that children do not form meaningful friendships until adolescence.
3. Step 3: Consider the impact of friendship quality on children's social and emotional development. Research shows that positive friendships contribute significantly to social skills and emotional well-being.
4. Step 4: Acknowledge that children's friendships are dynamic and can change frequently, so the idea that friendships are always stable and unchanging is incorrect.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the true statement is that friendships in early childhood are often based on shared activities and proximity, reflecting the nature of early social interactions among children.