Imaginary friends (also known as pretend friends, invisible friends or made-up friends) are a psychological and a social phenomenon where a friendship or other interpersonal relationship …

Jan 24, 2020 · It’s not uncommon for children to create imaginary friends or companions — someone they can talk to, interact with, and play with. These pretend friends may take the …

Oct 2, 2024 · It’s perfectly normal for kids to have an imaginary friend — and the relationship may even help them build social, emotional and coping skills.

Sep 3, 2025 · Imaginary friends are pretend characters that kids, and sometimes adults, talk to or play with. They might be a person, an animal, or even a magical creature.

Mar 17, 2025 · Imaginary friends help children see other people’s viewpoints. Even if the friend is imaginary, your child is learning to see things from other people’s perspectives.

2 days ago · Find out why imaginary friends are not just for kids, how the adult brain uses inner characters for thinking and emotion, and what this reveals about creativity and mental health.

Sep 15, 2024 · Imaginary friends, in the simplest terms, are make-believe companions created by children as part of their fantasy play. These invisible playmates can take on various forms, …

Jun 15, 2025 · But what exactly is the meaning behind “imaginary friend”? It’s far more nuanced than simply a figment of a child’s imagination. It’s a complex interplay of cognitive …

According to Oxford Dictionary (and other dictionaries), an “imaginary friend” is a childhood phenomenon where children create their invisible companions for entertainment or as …

Aug 3, 2025 · Uncover how imaginary friends in childhood may influence adult intelligence, empathy, and social ability. Explore psychological research, real-world examples, and how …