How do children in Level 1 of friendship development perceive friendship?

Children in Level 1 of friendship development often perceive friendship as a vital connection, even in the face of mistreatment. At this early stage, their understanding of friendship is deeply emotional and can be characterized by a strong attachment to peers, where the relationship holds significant importance in their social world. They may struggle to navigate the complexities of relationships and might tolerate negative behaviors or mistreatment because of their desire for companionship and connection. This reliance on emotional ties highlights a developing but often simplistic view of what friendship entails, focusing on the feelings it elicits rather than the behaviors or expectations involved.

This understanding of friendship emphasizes the emotional bond and attachment formed, which can sometimes overshadow the recognition of potential negative interactions within that relationship. Therefore, children at this level may cling to friendships for the sake of connection, not fully rejecting friendships even if they involve conflict or hurt, as the emotional attachment weighs heavily on their perception.