What is the 7 Friends Theory?
The 7 Friends Theory is a TikTok trend that shows off your closest pals. This theory places your dearest friends into specific categories, claiming that the best social circles have 7 types of people. Each friend within the group plays a different role in your life, supporting and uplifting you in their own unique way. TikTok users have taken the platform to show off their 7 closest friends who fit the mold, creating a carousel of photos featuring friends that match each category. It’s unclear who initially started this trend on TikTok, but as of September 2023, the hashtag #7friendtheory has over 13.4 million views. The TikToks are created using templates from CapCut and an excerpt of Phoebe Bridgers’ song “Scott Street.”
What are the 7 types of friends?
A friend you’ve known since childhood. This friend has been your ride-or-die since you were little. You likely grew up with them—perhaps you even knew each other when you were babies! They know practically everything about you and have possibly been by your side through all your highs and lows. Basically, you’ve grown up together and witnessed each other’s life milestones.
A friend that can always make you laugh. This friend makes you belly laugh each time you see them. They’re the first person you call for a pick-me-up when you're down—they always know what to say to make you feel better! They’re likely the class clown in your social circle, and you can always count on them to spit out a witty one-liner or classic dad joke.
A friend you can talk to like no time has passed. This friend you can go ages without seeing. You likely don’t talk or message with this friend every day, but the second you reconnect, it’s like nothing’s changed. You can go years without seeing each other, but it’ll only feel like yesterday you hung out. The friendship is truly timeless.
A friend you can tell anything to. This friend knows all your deepest, darkest secrets. They likely know everything about you, from your wildest dreams to your silliest regrets. You turn to them when you need advice. After all, they know you better than you know yourself! You likely go on deep tangents together and spend hours discussing every detail of your days with one another because you know they’ll never judge you.
A friend that’s like a sibling. This friend is a part of your family, hands down. Maybe you grew up together or had an instant bond upon meeting. Either way, they’re more like your sister or brother than a friend. You likely tease each other constantly and would do anything to make them smile. You’re likely extremely protective over one another, too.
A friend you can’t imagine not being in your life. This friend has always been there, no matter what. You simply can’t think about going through life without this friend. You probably care deeply for them and want to see them succeed in everything they do (as long as it doesn’t hinder your friendship). Life just wouldn’t be the same without them!
A friend who knows all your relationship drama. This friend knows all the hot gossip in your life. They’ve been through every crush, relationship, and breakup with you. They can likely name all the people you’ve had a thing for and don’t hesitate to say, “I told you so,” when things go south. You probably go to them when you need relationship advice (even if they don’t have experience or a significant other).
How to Make a 7 Friends Theory TikTok
Make a 7 Friends Theory video by compiling 7 photos of 7 friends that match the given descriptions. Following this trend is super easy to do! Simply think about the categories of friendship and friends that match the descriptions (the first friend that comes to mind is your best bet!). Then, use Cap Cut’s template to put together the video. Use “Scott Street” by Phoebe Bridgers for the audio and add a cute caption alongside #7friendtheory, and you’re good to go!
Is the 7 Friends Theory problematic?
Some argue that the trend is problematic for those without 7 friends. Like most TikTok trends, the 7 Friends Theory isn’t all-inclusive. Some users feel the trend glamorizes larger friend groups and puts those with fewer friends down. Even so, it’s important to remember that this trend is ultimately that: a trend. This is a fun video idea someone thought up one day, not a scientifically based explanation for why you need exactly 7 friends. You can have friends that fit multiple roles within the trend. Not every friend fits in one category, so it’s possible to have a friend that matches 2 or more of these descriptions at once.
What if you don’t have 7 friends?
You don’t necessarily have to have 7 friends because TikTok said so. Just because the theory says you should have this many friends doesn’t mean you can’t have less or more! The 7 Friends Theory is a fun trend, not a psychological benchmark. Don’t hesitate to make new friends or have fewer—do what’s best for you.
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