Is it easier to make and retain friends as a woman?

[Gorgeoussunset]

Was reading about this earlier. We have it seems better developed friendship networks than men, many of whom are apparently increasingly isolated especially when relationship ends. Certainly is some evidence this may be true looking around me. Am happy with my own circle but always open to adding to it. Thoughts?

I agree it's not really a man/woman thing. A lot of women like having a group of 5 or 6 friends who they arrange things with - but I've never really been into that.
DH tends to be friends with people through sporting interests / work. I would say he's way worse than me at keeping in touch with people; he has a mate who live very locally but they only meet up if they happen to bump into each other and then they'll arrange to go down the pub.

I also agree with odinslovechild my DP has friends that he doesn't really have much in common with; but they play the same xbox game therefore they're mates and spend quite a bit of time together. If I only had one thing in common with someone I would struggle to spend a lot time with them.

It's not a man/woman thing it's a person thing.

I'm a single mum and my friends - i have lots - are so so so important.

I have met most of them through shared connections, family etc, a common interest in baby wearing and my no. Parent friends through work or again other people. I also ha e one or two that go back to childhood. Some days my house has a steady stream of friends coming in, drinking coffee, children playing etc.

This isn't a boundaryless existence, the people I have in my life are respectful, like minded and warm and we value leach other equally. We also give each other space and I never feel out upon or feel worried to ask for help.
I find it so bloody sad that in a world full of people that so many people feel lonely and struggle to make friends.

I think people are often so riddled with neurosis l, fear, insecurity, judgement, desperation etc that all gets in the way of creating friendships. Either that or people just don't have a clue on how to reach out to people or how to enjoy friendships. Very very sad situation and very much a problem with this culture.

*each not leach!! Ha ha Freudian slip praps?

Seriously though, I used to be low and anxious a lot and cultivating friendships has been the single most important thing. I value love and friendship more than most things...

odinslovechild and those who agree, that's really sad you feel like that.

Perhaps this is your perception, there will always be aloof, busy and disconnected people who won't engage with others or just some others but walking round with this as your take on reality means that's all you will see

Another here where it's the other way around. OH(m) has people skills and picks up friends through shared interests. I'm pursuing an Aspie dx and people find me weird, I only have a couple of friends and even they class me as an acquaintance.