Fred has a large circle of acquaintances but no close friends. Mary, his wife, has a few very close friends. Everything being equal, if
Fred and Mary experience marital difficulties, who would have less trouble dealing with the stressful situation?
A Fred will because he has many people to tell his troubles to.
B It is impossible to tell because friends do not affect one's ability to cope with stress.
C Mary will because the social support of close friends aids in coping with stressful situations.
D They should experience about the same level of stress, because friends of any degree of intimacy provide social support.
