Research has demonstrated that women's friendships are deeper and more enduring than those between men. At one time, the traditional view held that friendship between women was a near impossibility. Jealousy, competition, and rivalry were cited as the causes that prevented women from sharing the kinds of friendships that men experienced. Yet, as more women left the confines of the home to enter the world at large, increased opportunities for friendship developed. Based on firsthand interviews, original studies, and extensive research Women and Friendship is a pioneering work that offers a contemporary portrait of these tiers, including the ways these friendships are formed, the quality and depth of these friendships, friendships with the opposite sex, friendships affected by divorce, and changes in friendship during different changes of life. In addition, the authors offer solid suggestions for maintaining and repairing friendships. - p. 4 of cover.