Conceal Don’t Feel: Study of Interpersonal Closeness Between High School Males in California

Abstract

Recognizing the importance of genuine connection for human, this research dives into the study of interpersonal closeness between high school males in California. This paper includes a literature review with current scholarly work, consensus, and polls on interpersonal closeness and cultural views and effects through gender stereotypes. In the research design, a mixed method including causal-comparative research, content analysis, and coding was used. The main source of data was collected through interview responses. The responses were compared, coded, and analyzed. The conclusion that high school males in California have the capability of producing interpersonal closeness with each other was reached. Furthermore, differences were found in the ways female pairs and male pairs develop interpersonal closeness. Implication of encouraging interpersonal closeness within males were suggested.