Frenemies May Be Worse for Health Than Enemies
research · Vibe: The Secrets of Strong Connections in a Lonely World (2026)
Ambivalent relationships—those that mix support and hostility—may impose a heavier health toll than relationships that are consistently negative.
Core Concepts
The Problem
Many people assume clear enemies are the most damaging relationships to health and well-being.
The Claim
Relationships that combine positive and negative interactions, sometimes called frenemies, may be worse for health than consistently negative relationships.
Key Evidence
- •Discussed in Adam Grant's book Vibe as a finding about social connection and health.
Practical Implication
Paying attention to ambivalent ties may be as important for well-being as avoiding obvious adversaries.
Nuance & Limits
The comparison concerns health effects, not necessarily which relationship feels more painful in the moment.
Source Material
Citation Density
early
Gaps
- ⚠ The episode does not name the specific underlying studies.
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