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Uzone.id — If you’re a TikTok user, you’ve probably come across the “7 Friends Theory” trend that’s been blowing up on the platform since a year ago. According to this trend, you only need a few friends to have a full social circle—seven, to be exact.
According to Bustle, the “7 Friend’s Theory” shows that smaller friend groups might just be the perfect formula by highlighting the unique strengths each of your close circle brings to the table. But what’s the deal with this theory, and why has it gone viral?
What is the “7 Friends Theory”?
The 7 Friends Theory claims that in everyone’s friend group, there are exactly seven types of friends.
“The trend lists out seven specific “roles” that each friend typically assumes, some of which revolve around how long you’ve known each other, while others are centered around their personalities or your level of closeness,” quoted from Bustle.
Each person plays a unique role, and no matter how many friends you have, this theory suggests that you’ll be able to categorize each of them into one of these slots.
Based on Pure Wow Wellness, the types of friends according to “7 Friends Theory” are:
- A friend you’ve had since you were little
- A friend you can tell anything to
- A friend that’s like a sister
- A friend that could make you laugh in any situation (the funny one)
- A friend you can go on forever without talking to but nothing changes
- A friend you can’t imagine not being friends with
- A friend that knows about all your relationship problems, even though they don’t want to hear about it.
So, should you start making roles for all of your friends? Sure, if it’s just for fun! But, this theory doesn’t apply to every group. Again, this is just a trend. Instead of labeling every friend, consider this an opportunity to appreciate the diversity in your social circle.
Why is ‘7 Friends Theory” so Popular on TikTok?
The app is known for some unique personality tests and theories, and people love to do it by themselves and their friends.
TikTok’s algorithm thrives on engagement, so trends that ask people to tag their friends, create content, and share get boosted quickly.
The theory invites everyone to think about their social group in a fun, non-judgmental way. It’s like a reflection on your friendships, giving you the chance to appreciate the different roles of people around you.
“The 7 Friends Theory resonates because we all love labeling things—especially our relationships. It feels fun and validating to put a name to the dynamic we already know exists,” said Content creator Jenna Reyes.
Does it matter?
This theory highlights the importance of having a balanced friend group. Having friends with different strengths and personalities enriches your life, offering a mix of fun, support, and growth.
When your friend group has variety, you’re less likely to feel stuck in one type of dynamic, and more likely to feel fulfilled in different areas of your life.
Of course, not everyone is into the 7 Friends Theory. Some people think it oversimplifies friendships and puts too much pressure on people to fit into specific roles. Critics say that real friendships are more fluid and complicated, and reducing them to a list of seven archetypes can feel limiting.
“You only need a handful of true and loyal friends to help you get through life, and sometimes you can count on one hand the people who have your back,” said Dominique Fluker from Essense.
While categorizing friends can be fun, it’s important to remember that friendships are always dynamic, nothing sticks to the same role all the time.
“As a person who studies friendship, I don’t see any research that says that a certain number of people ought to have. However, what I appreciate about the concept of the seven friends theory is how it’s sparking discussion around how sometimes having the singular best friend is not the ultimate goal,” said friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson, quoted from Essence.
The 7 Friends Theory is an example of how TikTok makes us think about our lives in fresh and creative ways. Whether you’re the Adventurer, the Funny One, or a little bit of both, this trend reminds us to appreciate our friends and the unique roles they play.
At the end of the day, friendships are about connection, support, and fun—whether they fit into that theory or not. Do not let an online trend ruin your friendship!
