Relational importance in early and middle adulthood age groups in South Africa

Abstract

We explored the relational importance in early and middle adulthood in a South African setting. Informants were 52 participants (female = 58%, African language speaking = 31%, age range = 18–65; younger adults = 50%). Data on the types of important relationships and the reasons behind the importance for the different age groups were collected through semi-structured, open-ended questions. Thematic analysis indicated family, friends, and spiritual relationships as the most important relationships across the age groups. Other relationships important to both groups, were relationships pertaining to work, pet/s, and self. The middle adulthood age group emphasised the importance of work relationships above those with friends and further indicated relationships with their spouse, success, and neighbours. Younger adults indicated relationships with romantic partners, academics, and society as a whole. The findings suggest a convoy effect on relationship preferences for these age groups in that they highlight the importance of social relationships and how they vary in different developmental phases or stages of life. Implications for consideration of developmental phases in the design of interventions are indicated.