Final answer:
During early adulthood, which covers the twenties and early thirties, individuals typically form the widest circle of friends and acquaintances due to being in physical peak, establishing careers, and the proximity of potential social connections in their daily environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
People tend to have the most friends and acquaintances during their early adulthood, which usually spans from their twenties into their early thirties. During this period, individuals often reach the peak of their physical health, complete their education, and enter the workforce, all contexts that foster social interactions and the formation of relationships. The proximity principle also plays a significant role as people are more likely to form relationships with those they frequently encounter, such as peers in educational institutions or colleagues at the workplace.
Additionally, early adulthood is a time when many people focus on forming intimate relationships, which may include friendships and romantic partnerships. This life stage often involves significant life events such as engagement, marriage, or starting a family, contributing to increased social engagement. The principle of proximity suggests that regular contact with others greatly increases the chance of friendships forming, as shown by research dating back to Festinger, Schachler, & Back in 1950. Therefore, it's common for individuals to have a broad circle of friends and acquaintances during this phase of life due to the various social realms they are involved in.