The process of relationship development and deterioration: Turning points in friendships that have terminated

Abstract

This study examines friendships that have ended. Five recalled trajectories for dissolved friendships were found. Certain turning points were generally associated with increases in friendship closeness, while others were associated with decreases in closeness. In addition, gender differences were found for several of the turning points reported. Implications are discussed for interpersonal communication research based on a traditional linear conceptualization of relational development and deterioration. Key concepts: relationship dissolutionfriendshipsturning points