In psychosocial theory, how does the radius of significant relationships change with age?

• A. It gets bigger as you get older
• B. It gets smaller with age
• C. It remains constant
• D. It disappears in adulthood

Answer: (A)

In psychosocial thinking about social connections, the reach of the relationships you consider significant tends to expand as you age. As people move through life, take on new roles, and engage with different parts of the community—such as extended family, longtime friends, neighbors, and group activities—the network of meaningful ties can widen. This broader radius doesn’t erase close, intimate connections, but it adds more people who provide support, information, and a sense of belonging across various life contexts. So even though some relationships may fade or change in importance, the overall reach of meaningful connections often grows with age. The idea that the radius shrinks, disappears, or stays fixed doesn’t align with how social engagement typically evolves over the lifespan.