Men who meet to socialize at nightclubs twice in a week have improved mental health, according to a study by a psychologist professor at Oxford University.
The study conducted by professor Robin Dunbar, a psychologist and director of Oxford University’s social and evolutionary neuroscience research group, showed that men should physically meet with four friends twice a week to reap the full benefits of male friendship.
Dunbar suggests that despite spending 20% of their day interacting through other means, men need to meet face to face to keep their friendships strong.
The research further revealed that as men get older and garner more responsibilities, most of them don’t make time for friends.
Dunbar explained that men are also moving into a chapter where they are becoming more cognisant of their mental health.
His research came at a time when most men acknowledge that taking time with their male friends is a positive contributor to their health generally.
“Male friendships are a critical component of overall health and happiness for all men, despite social pressures to maintain a stoic attitude,” he noted in the report.
According to the study, male friendships help lower stress, improve overall health and strengthen emotional intelligence.
