Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow:
In an era dominated by digital connections, the definition of friendship has undergone a profound transformation. While social media platforms allow individuals to maintain hundreds of 'friends' with a single click, sociologists argue that true friendships require shared experiences. According to psychological research, human beings are cognitively limited in the number of stable social relationships they can maintain-a concept known as Dunbar's Number, which caps the average social network at about 150 people. Within that number, only a tiny fraction (typically around five individuals) constitutes a person's core support group. These deep bonds are characterized by reciprocal emotional support and mutual trust, elements that cannot be replicated through casual online interactions or algorithmically curated feeds.
Furthermore, authentic friendships act as a vital buffer against stress and mental health challenges. Studies consistently show that individuals with strong social ties have lower levels of anxiety and a higher life expectancy. However, cultivating these relationships in adulthood has become increasingly difficult due to busy work schedules and geographical mobility. Unlike childhood, where proximity naturally foster bonds, adult friendship demands deliberate efforts. Ultimately, the quality of one's connections far outweighs the quantity, proving that a few meaningful anchors are worth a sea of contacts.