What does the study of relationship consist of?

The study of relationships, particularly emotional relationships, was the spark to what was an under-researched area of children’s friendship in the 1970’s. Increasingly over time, the studying of the complexity of childhood friendships and their development into adolescence has been explored by many. Leading into different approaches depending on the intricate topics that needed to be addressed. The use of both qualitative and quantitative approaches have over the years given a mutually enriching understanding of the stages and nature of friendships from early childhood. However, I will be evaluating the contributions of a qualitative approach to research in friendship.