ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights Generation Z’s diverse and worldwide social circles where many of their friends may simply be online “friends.” The focus of the chapter is on how those in Generation Z make friends in-person and online as well as how they manage their peer communities. The chapter continues with a discussion on maintaining friendships with a closer look at spending time together both in real life and online as well as how text messaging and group chats impact friendships. Insight is provided on the dark side of friendships and peer interactions with a focus on cyberbullying, unfriending, and online isolation.
