Palermo, Ilaria (2023) Friends at a distance. A qualitative analysis of the everyday geographies of stretched out ego-networks. Bachelor thesis.
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Abstract
This study examines the relationship between geographic proximity and emotional closeness in friendship networks, challenging Tobler's first Law of Geography (1970) and Cronin's (2016) findings on distant emotional proximity. The research reveals that despite limited communication and visits, geographically distant friends can be emotionally proximate. Strong ties, defined as close friends (Granotter, 1973; Bellotti, 2008), play a crucial role in determining emotional and imaginative closeness, transcending physical distance. Participants often referred to non-geographically close friends when discussing their close friendships. Communication with distant friends varied, but interestingly, most respondents had at least one long-distance tie they spoke to weekly. Seeking emotional support primarily from geographically close ties or romantic partners was preferred, likely due to convenience. Relocation decisions can be influenced by friends' locations, yet participants showed concerns about relocating again, considering the challenges of rebuilding a geographically close network. This research serves as a valuable starting point, highlighting the need for further exploration in this area.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor) |
|---|---|
| Degree programme: | Human Geography and Planning |
| Supervisor: | Vos, D. |
| Date Deposited: | 13 Jul 2023 08:58 |
| Last Modified: | 13 Jul 2023 08:58 |
| URI: | https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4240 |
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