Nondisabled friends talked about the obligations that they had assumed for their friend with a disability, such as teacher, mentor, caretaker, or protector. The friends with disabilities assumed certain responsibilities in maintaining the relationship such as keeping in touch or suggesting possible activities. Feelings, from Companionship to Intimacy. All of the friends held feelings of affection for each other, expressed through their interactions with each other. Freely Chosen and Given.
Friends choose each other.
Private and Exclusive Nature. Within the boundaries of each friendship is a private relationship that is inaccessible to others. The friends have a history and an understanding of their connection to each other that separates this from all of their other relationships. People can establish friendships with each other, but it is not possible to force friendships upon others. It is possible to create opportunities for people with and without disabilities to meet and share time with each other in ways that encourage friendships to take root and flourish.