B

Since we are social beings, the quality of our lives depends in large measure on our interpersonal relationships. One strength of the human condition is our possibility to give and receive support from one another under stressful conditions. Social support makes up of the exchange of resources among people based on their interpersonal ties. Those of us with strong support systems appear better able to cope with major life changes and daily hassles(困难). People with strong social ties live longer and have better health than those without such ties. Studies over types of illnesses, from depression to heart disease, show that the presence of social support helps people fend off(挡开) illness, and the absence of such support makes poor health more likely.

Social support cushions stress in a number of ways. First, friends, relatives and co­workers may let us know that they value us. Our self­respect is strengthened when we feel accepted by others in spite of our faults and difficulties. Second, other people often provide us with informational support. They help us to define and understand our problems and find solutions to them. Third, we typically find social companionship supportive. Taking part in free­time activities with others helps us to meet our social needs while at the same time distracting(转移注意力 ) us from our worries and troubles. Finally, other people may give us instrumental support-money aid, material resources, and needed services-that reduces stress by helping us resolve and cope with our problems.

5. Interpersonal relationships are important because____.

A. they are indispensable(不可缺少的) to people's social well­being

B. they awaken people's desire to exchange resources

C. they help people to cope with life in the information era

D. they can cure a range of illnesses such as heart disease, etc.

答案　A　[细节理解题。由文章第一段第一句：Since we are social beings，the quality of our lives depends in large measure on our interpersonal relationships. (因为我们是社会人，我们生活的质量主要依赖于人际关系)可知答案。]

6. Research shows that people's physical and mental health____.