Originally Posted by
Patchwork
the fear of rejection or someone being angry often stops me from doing these kinds of things, because I know I will have difficulty in dealing with those kinds of reactions, and I won't know how to react myself.
Oh yeah, definitely! I was trying to say that. I'm really scared of rejection and don't know what to do when it happens, so I avoid it completely.
Originally Posted by
Patchwork
I'd say in general, if you want to hug her, just ask if that's OK, and don't be offended if she says no.
I think that's a good idea. Also, when people ask things like "do you want a hug?" or "do you want to go ____?" and I don't want to, I tend to bluntly say "no" instead of something like "no, but thankyou for offering" because I don't feel I should thank them for offering me something I don't want! I know that sounds silly, but if I'm having a day where I'm less socially able than usual, I can sometimes be like that, and your friend could give an equally short response, but don't be offended.