1. Who do people usually like to spend more time with? Family or friends?

I think people usually like spending more time with their friends. Don’t get me wrong244, family is really important and I know a lot of people who enjoy hanging out with their relatives. But when it comes down to it, friends are just easier to spend time with. For one, you usually have more in common with your friends. For another, it’s easier to be yourself around them. They aren’t really expecting anything from you245.

2. Whafs the difference between staying with friends and staying with family?

When you’re staying with friends, you can let loose246 a bit more. You don’t have to follow all the rules your family might have. But on the flip side, your friends might not take care of you as well as your family would. When you stay with family, you know they’ll provide you with whatever you need. However, you might feel like you have to be on your best behaviour247 around them.

3. Do people prefer being with a large group of people or with a few friends?

I guess most people like being with a few friends instead of a large group. Large groups can be really fun for certain occasions, like weddings or big parties. But it’s very easy to feel crowded with a large group. And it’s awkward248 and lonely when you’re with a ton of people but can’t find a person you can really talk with. In general, it’s nicer to just hang out with a few friends. That way, you don’t get overwhelmed249. You can actually spend quality time with each person. It’s about quality, not quantity.

4. Some researchers say people naturally like socializing, what do you think about it?

I definitely agree. I know lots of people who are crazy about socializing. They are literally social butterflies250. I find most people who like socializing can easily strike up a conversation with251 just about anyone. They can always find something to talk about with others even if they’re total strangers. So I think there are always people who are naturally good at socialising and love it too. I’m definitely not like that. But I really admire those who can make friends so easily.

5. What kinds of socialising skills can be improved from being with friends?

The first one that comes to mind is communication. When you’re around friends, you end up talking about what you’re thinking and how you’re feeling. That skill comes in handy in all parts of life252. After all, nobody can help you or relate to you if they don’t understand you. You can also learn how to be a better listener. You should be able to give as well as receive. Everyone likes a listening ear253.

6. Do science and technology improve the relationship between people?

I believe that in some cases, science and technology can help strengthen people’s relationships. The first thing that comes to mind is video-chat. Because of developments in technology, people who are really far apart254 can talk to each other as if they’re in the same room. They can see each other’s faces and hear each other in real time. It’s really amazing when you think about it. Plus, it helps improve long-distance relationships.

244 Don’t get me wrong:不要误会我的意思
245 expecting anything from you：(朋友）不会（像父母一样）对你有要求和期望（所以不会让你感到有压力)
246 let loose:随心所欲
247 on your best behaviour：(在家长面前）要好好表现
248 awkward：尴尬的
249 don’t get overwhelmed:不会手足无措250 social butterflies:社交达人
251 strike up a conversation with:和…攀谈
252 comes in handy in all parts of life:在生活每个方面都能派上用场
253 a listening ear:善于倾听的人，忠实听众
254 far apart:离得远