As they grow older, people tend to choose blank______ friends over blank______ friends. Which option best completes the sentence according to attachment theory?

• A. superficial; emotionally close
• B. younger; older
• C. emotionally close; superficial
• D. distant; supportive

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the core idea of attachment theory, which emphasizes the importance of emotional bonds and security in relationships throughout life.
2. Recognize that as people age, their social goals and needs often shift towards seeking deeper emotional connections rather than casual or superficial interactions.
3. Identify the terms in the options that reflect this shift: 'emotionally close' friends represent meaningful, supportive relationships, while 'superficial' friends imply more surface-level connections.
4. Match the sentence structure with the theory's prediction: people tend to choose 'emotionally close' friends over 'superficial' friends as they grow older.
5. Confirm that this choice aligns with attachment theory's focus on the quality and emotional depth of relationships increasing with age.