Peer relationships (i.e., friendships) in middle childhood.

1. How do you think that technology has changed the way that children in middle childhood make friends and maintain their friendships today versus previous generations of children that could not connect with friends via cell phones, texting, social media, online gaming, etc.? For example, how have cell phones, tablets, social media, online games, etc. changed the nature of making friends? Maintaining friendships? Do you think that friendships are stronger or weaker today (compared to previous generations) because of the advent of technology and social media?

2. How do you think the COVID-19 pandemic has affected friendships in children in the middle childhood developmental period? Do you think there are age differences to consider here (the middle childhood developmental period includes children ages 6-12 years).