Final answer:
Besides physical distance, functional distance must be considered when discussing proximity, as it relates to the frequency of interactions that can lead to friendships or relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
When speaking of proximity, the other variable to consider besides physical distance is functional distance. This concept refers to how often people's paths cross in a given environment. Functional distance can be more influential than mere physical distance because it emphasizes the frequency of interactions, which increases the likelihood of relationship formation. This is supported by the principle that you are more likely to become friends with someone you see regularly, such as neighbors or classmates, than with someone who lives farther away.