What can I do about a friend who freaks out whenever I touch her, even if it's an accident?

Question

We have been friends for 2 years now, and I like hanging out with her because she's quiet, unlike my other friends. But in two years I am still trying to get used to her ways. She comes from a very strict family(whenever we're out, Dad always calls to check on her), and her mom is sick. Also she and her sister hate each other, which I know there is sibling rivalry, but they are extreme. Anywho.. we were in the mall yesterday, and I heard a noise that scared us both and out of instinct I reached for her hand. She aggressively pulled away and it tugged at my heart strings a litte. She'll never hug me and she's told me that she's never told anyone at all that she loved them, not even family. I dont want to change her or anything, but is there a way I can get her to open up, or should I just not deal with her anymore? And also, am I maybe being too sensitive about the whole thing? I'm very affectionate with friends and family, so this is quite weird to me.

Answer 1

You are a very brave and respectful young man Now lets talk about your friend . This girl went through a lot . Iam quite sure she had been abuse emotionely sexulay and physicaly . Why Because her beahavier is not normal even if she had been raise by strict parents You do her a great favor if you can convince her to get help by a phycologist .In all this protect yourself beacause she can drain you emotionely to the point of apersnal breakdown Dont wait for her to change because shecan,t she has to much problems Yes stay friend with her but also take care of yourself good luck

Answer 2

Just try and accept her as she is. Try to respect her boundaries. Why would you consider not dealing with her, since you obviously get something from the friendship. Not everyone is affectionate or demonstrative. You say you don't want to change her then in the next sentence you're asking how you can get her to open up. For her, she probably is opening up to you just by participating in the friendship. Try not to bail on her. Sounds like she needs a friend like you. Just keep loving her and the gifts you receive will be bountiful.