With regard to close friends, do people act differently with their close friends than with others? What might close friends be able to do that makes it valuable to have one?

Any difference in males and females regarding friends? Does a potential separation have any effect on a friendship?

Answer:
People will do such things as brag when dealing with others, but not so much with close friends; people are generally more honest with their closest friends. Close friends are good because you can self-disclose fully and provide mutual emotional support in case of tough times. You can be yourself with a close friend. Females report having more friends than do males. When it comes time for friends to go their separate ways, like at graduation, it can be painful, and people will often grow closer because of the approaching separation.