Final answer:
Proximity is a key factor in forming relationships, as frequent contact with people increases the chance of friendship. However, modern communication tools allow for maintaining relationships over distances, despite potential drawbacks compared to face-to-face interaction. Ultimately, direct personal encounters can be more effective, especially in serious matters.
Step-by-step explanation:
Building Relationships Through Proximity and Communication
The debate over the most effective way to build a relationship often centers on proximity versus the quality of communication. The idea that being geographically close to someone (proximity) tends to increase the likelihood of forming relationships is supported by research, such as Festinger, Schachler, & Back's study from 1950. People you see and interact with regularly, like those in your neighborhood or dorm, are more likely to become friends due to the ease of getting to know them.
However, the modern world presents new challenges to the idea of proximity being key. For instance, students trying to communicate across great distances, such as from the United States to Australia, often face the practical choice between costly travel or electronic messaging due to the high cost of travel. Today's technology offers various ways of maintaining a relationship despite the distance. Although consistent communication through messaging can increase levels of attachment, some studies have shown that relationships may be perceived as weaker when messaging replaces voice or face-to-face interactions.
Despite the convenience of digital communication, face-to-face meetings remain important, especially when dealing with serious issues or when trying to establish a more personal connection. Speaking directly to someone can often be more effective, as is observed in studies of lobbying and public opinion influence, where direct communication still tends to have the most significant impact in the long run.