Assignment Instructions:
Informally survey 6 to 10 people, ages 15 and older, to assess their opinion on the belief
that “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” and report the results—including 1 or 2
selected quotes from your participants. (3 points). Does the information presented in
Chapter 3 support or deny this popular proverb? (1.5 points). How do your participants'
opinions compare to the Chapter 3 information? (1.5 points). What was your opinion on
this issue, both before and after doing this exercise? (1.5 points). 1.5 points will be given
for proper formatting, including page length and proper grammar.
, Introduction
The proverb “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” suggests that separation strengthens
affection between individuals. This belief has persisted across generations and cultures,
yet psychological research presents mixed findings about its validity. To explore this
notion, I conducted an informal survey of eight individuals aged between 17 and 55,
seeking to understand how people interpret emotional distance and attachment in
relationships. The responses were analyzed alongside insights from Chapter 3, which
discusses relationship dynamics, emotional intimacy, and attachment theory.
Survey Method and Participants
The survey included eight participants: four males and four females from varied age
groups (teenagers, young adults, and middle-aged adults). Each participant was asked
whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement “Absence makes the heart grow
fonder” and to elaborate briefly on their reasoning. The participants were interviewed
informally through conversations and short text exchanges. Their responses were coded
for common themes, such as trust, longing, emotional distance, and relationship strength.
Results and Selected Quotes
Out of eight participants, five agreed with the statement, two disagreed, and one remained
neutral. The majority believed that physical separation increased appreciation for the
relationship, as it allowed them to reflect on their emotions and value their partner’s
presence more deeply.
One participant, a 24-year-old college student, stated, “When my boyfriend moved away