Question

Jason, Daniel, and Larry live in the same apartment building. Jason lives on the fourth floor, right above Daniel on the third floor, and right next to the stairwell. Larry lives next door to Jason and typically takes the elevator at the other end of the hallway. Jason and Daniel typically take the stairs. Which two of these three men are most likely to become friends?

a) Jason and Daniel because they have a closer functional distance
b) Jason and Larry because they are physically closer to each other
c) Daniel and Larry because of mere exposure effect
d) It is impossible to tell from the information given

Answer 1

Jason and Daniel are most likely to become friends due to their closer functional distance and the fact that they often take the stairs, allowing them more opportunities for interaction compared to Larry, who uses a different method to move between floors.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two men most likely to become friends in this scenario would be Jason and Daniel because they have a closer functional distance, meaning that their interactions are more frequent due to them living on consecutive floors and their preference for taking the stairs. Proximity is a significant factor in relationship formation, and regular contact increases the likelihood of friendship.

According to research, you're more likely to become friends with people who are in close proximity to you, such as those living in the same apartment building, dorm, or neighborhood. In this situation, Jason and Daniel have more opportunities to meet and interact, which can lead to the development of a friendship. While Larry lives next door to Jason, the use of different building entrances and means of moving between floors may limit their interactions, reducing the chances of a close friendship forming between them compared to the relationship potential between Jason and Daniel.