It’s normal for people to build a bond with each other over time. But what if they’re of the opposite sex? Can guys and girls have friendships without drama or romantic feelings? This, of course, has been a question for the ages. We’ve seen all the classics like When Harry Met Sally, No Strings Attached, Friends With Benefits, and 13 Going on 30. Those romantic comedies tackled this great debate on the widescreen. We asked a few young women on their experiences with guys and if they had any awkward encounters because let’s face it we all have some really hot guy friend right?
Tori, 19 | Of course, guys and girls can be friends! I have many guy friends. I go to parties, sporting events, and dinners with them all the time. They are really cool. I have brothers and I spent time with guys all the time so I’m really comfortable around them. Of course, some of us might develop romantic feelings but it goes away quickly over time. My guy friends already know that I have a boyfriend so they respect my space. If you don’t make a big deal about things then you won’t have a problem.
Michelle, 22 | One of my friends had a super attractive male friend. So I said to myself “cool this is my way in.” I just had to casually find a way to hang out with them both to make life easier and less awkward. Guess what hung out and everything was definitely not awkward because the guy that I was crushing on was such a sweetheart and completely hilarious. Now, I see him as just a friend or like a big brother. After getting to know him more I realized that “yes he’s good-looking” but he’s also a pretty chill dude that I’m totally fine with being just friends with.
Bria, 20 | I don’t have a lot of guy friends. I think I’m a cute girl and sadly so do some college guys. I meet some of them in my classes and I can tell that they think I’m attractive. There’s nothing wrong with that and I’m flattered. They respect my space, but I feel that they don’t want to be just friends with me. I already was asked out a few times this semester, but I feel I should focus more on myself right now. I love men, I really do but not every girl you meet should be seen as a potential date.
Katlin, 26 | Have you ever had that one guy friend that you’re pretty close with hit on you? That happened to me for a while and I didn’t know how to handle it. I ignored him when he made comments about going out alone and said thank you when he complimented me. I didn’t want to face telling him I’m not interested. Although ignoring those moments didn’t kill our friendship completely, we hardly talk much these days. I don’t regret my choices—I hate intentionally hurting someone’s feelings.
Audrey, 28 | It is absolutely possible for men and women to be friends. Some of my closest friends are men. They just get me. No, I’m not a tomboy, in fact, I hate sports and anything to do with nature. I start all of my friendships with a clear perspective and direction. My male friends know where I stand in the relationship and I get what they want out of it too. You’ve got to make boundaries and understand other people’s intentions from the first day you meet them. For example, if you meet a guy at a bar he’s probably not looking for a friend.