4 Cents on The Bromance

I have always tended to have more male friends and to associate with male cliques rather than female. I never gave this much thought, but if I had to explain it, I would say the reason is male friendships are (stereotypically) easier. I don’t have to worry about pettiness and drama, being misunderstood or judged, as when a part of majority female groups. But as I have gotten older (or because I too have enjoyed watching the mindless Judd Apatow movies), I have become more aware that guys need “guy time.” Several weeks ago my friends (“the Boys”) were planning an event and I was invited to attend. I declined so they could have “boy bonding” as I call it. They all proceeded to make fun of me because I always decline these invites to allow for boy bonding. Their argument was that they bond enough (because they are boys and don’t need as much time to bond as females—my interpretation; not theirs), they enjoy my company (who doesn’t), and they can bond with each other with me being present (seems true enough too). My argument was the Boys censor themselves around me even if it’s subconscious. They immediately denied it, reassured me that I would not be intruding, and attempted to not censor themselves. I know some of their over-the-top behavior and remarks were an exaggeration to prove their point, and they don’t habitually talk/act in that manner when not under female observation (at least, they say they don’t. I tend to believe them). Regardless, after a few days they went back to censoring themselves and I was happier.