In relationships, how people can act so differently when they are with their friends is something very interesting. This intriguing transformation can be particularly pronounced in boyfriends, especially those that seem to adopt a different persona when surrounded by their closest companions.
It is often as if they step into a whole new version of themselves. You as their girlfriends start wondering why this happens, and what's behind this change in behaviour. This aspect of men’s behaviour warrants exploration as it brings us to the understanding of peer influence, complexities of social dynamics, and the allure of shared friendship.
Why is my boyfriend different Around his friends?
This article will explore possible reasons why your boyfriend may reveal different facets of himself in the company of his friends.
A Result of Social Dynamics
In how individuals behave in diverse social settings, social dynamics play an interesting role. It means that you probably have noticed how your boyfriend behaves differently when with his friends. In other words, it is like having invisible rules that guide our behaviour around specific groups.
When with his friends, he may feel more comfortable and relaxed, thereby leading to a shift in his conduct compared to when he is with you or others. It may be a different case when he is with his pastors or church members for instance. It is just a natural human tendency to adapt and fit in with the social group where they feature in.
So, social dynamics can explain why your boyfriend might seem like a whole new person around his friends. Understanding this concept helps us appreciate the complexities of human behaviour and how we navigate various social interactions.
Influence by Peer Pressure
Why your boyfriend may exhibit strange character while around his pals may be due to the influence breed by his peers. Of course, peer pressure is something that we have all encountered at some point in our lives. This happens when your friends or people in your social circle influence us to do certain things or behave in a particular way.
When your boyfriend is with his friends, he might feel the pressure to conform to their norms and act accordingly. It is like they have this unwritten code that everyone follows, and he does not want to be left out. So, peer pressure can be a reason why he behaves differently when he is with his friends compared to when he is with you.
Assertion of Masculinity
Sometimes, men will want to be men in some dimension especially when with their buddies. This is parallel to asserting masculinity which is a situation that can influence how guys behave in the company of their friends. In other words, the assertion of masculinity is a men’s desire to display their “manly” side.
Your boyfriend might feel the need to display show behaviours or traits that align with traditional masculine norms when he is around his male friends. It's a way of fitting into that group dynamic.
Therefore, your boyfriend’s need to assert his masculinity can lead to him acting differently, maybe showing off or being more competitive in ways he would not necessarily do when it's just the two of you. It is mostly about that sense of friendship and identity within the group.
Influence of high-intake of Alcoholic Substance
The fact that a high intake of alcoholic substances can influence the rapport of your boyfriend when with his friends cannot be overemphasized. No doubt, the influence of alcohol or substances can significantly impact behaviour in social settings.
When your boyfriend and his friends indulge in these substances, it can alter their inhibitions and judgment. This might lead to more outgoing or boisterous behaviour, making him appear different from his usual self.
Sometimes, people use these substances to feel more confident or part of the group, and that can change how they interact and present themselves. So, if he acts differently when he's with his friends, it could be due to the influence of alcohol or substances playing a part in the mix.
Expression of the Level of Comfort
The level of comfort plays an essential role in how your boyfriend behaves around his friends. When he is with his closest companions, he is likely to feel more at ease and relaxed. This heightened comfort allows him to let loose and be himself without any pretences.
On the other hand, in your romantic relationship, he might feel a bit more self-conscious or worried about making the right impression. So, around his friends, he might show a more carefree and uninhibited side of himself, while with you, he could be more focused on maintaining a certain image or being considerate.
Concealing Vulnerabilities
Your boyfriend may act differently when he is with his friends to hide his vulnerabilities. When he is with his friends, he might feel the need to mask any vulnerabilities or weaknesses to avoid appearing less strong or capable.
It is like putting on a shield to protect himself from judgment or teasing. In a close romantic relationship, people tend to be more open and comfortable showing their sensitive side. But around friends, he might prefer to maintain a more confident or indifferent front, avoiding any signs of vulnerability to fit into the group dynamic and uphold a certain image that strengthens him.
What to do if your boyfriend acts differently Around his Friends
If your boyfriend acts differently around his friends, here's what you can do:
Talk things out with Him
Initiate an open and non-confrontational conversation with your boyfriend. Express your observations without accusing or blaming him.
Make Inquiries About His Reasons
Gently inquire about his reasons for acting differently around his friends. There might be various factors at play, such as peer pressure, trying to fit in, or a desire to maintain a certain image. Create a safe space for him to share his thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Express Your Concerns to Him
Share how his behaviour makes you feel. Explain that you value authenticity and open communication in your relationship and that you want to understand him better. Let him know that you're coming from a place of care and concern for the relationship.
Discuss with Him What Your Expectations Are
Discuss both of your expectations regarding behaviour in social settings. Understand that striking a balance between individuality and fitting in with a group can be challenging. Find common ground where he can be himself while still enjoying time with his friends.
In Conclusion
As mentioned earlier on, the way your boyfriend behaves around his friends is influenced by a combination of factors, each contributing to the intriguing shifts in his demeanour.
The factor of Social dynamics plays a role as he adapts to fit in and be accepted within the group. Peer pressure can influence him to conform to his friends' norms while asserting masculinity might lead him to display traditional "manly" traits. Also, the influence of alcohol or substances can alter his behaviour in social settings, and his comfort level with friends allows him to be more relaxed and carefree. Lastly, he may conceal vulnerabilities to protect himself from judgment.
Understanding these factors helps unravel the complexities of human behaviour and the multifaceted nature of relationships.