In agreement with Helen's observation : "In my circles, amongst educated >New Zealand women, we often pity men because our observation is that few of >them have same sex friends. 'We' believe that women are better at >networking, supporting each other, making friends etc. than men." Or perhaps I am older than most of you >and that is why my perceptions are different? I am fifty-one. > I'd like to say to Helen that as a young Kiwi women (late twenties) I have also made similar observations about many young men who have friendships based more on "activities and fun" than meaningful or emotional sharing type friendships. Whereas the women I associate with develope extremely strong bonds and "network" very effectively. I could not relate well to the lastest postings on this list about jealousies and competitiveness between women that apparently do not influence men in the same way. Australia appears similar to New Zealand (so perhaps its a hemisphere difference !?!) where strong women friendships and bonds are common, and jealousies over men or careers appear to be rare. In addition the male "buddies and mates" culture appears strong and men stick together in the workplace, although the friendships may not necessarily go further than that. There are always exceptions however. Toni
