MY FRIENDS ARE ALL HUGGERS, AND I HATE IT!

When they see me, they throw their arms around me and squeeze away. I’m not a germophobe, and I love my friends. I’d just prefer a handshake. Is that so wrong?

It could have been me asking that question,” says Dr Forman. “I think hugs are super complex. How long is the hug supposed to last? How tight do you squeeze? Where do your hands go? Do you involve a second arm? Hugging leads to a lot more questions than it answers.”

Western culture seems to have grown huggier over the years, and Dr Forman blames TV, especially talk shows, on which guests are often greeted with hugs. Or perhaps it’s ‘bro’ culture writ large. You see your buddy and give him a big, beery hug like the ones in the Hangover movies.

Whatever the reason, it’s perfectly fine to head off a hug by sticking out your hand for a handshake. Want to make it warmer? Use your other arm to grasp the person’s forearm. Lots of contact and affirmation. No actual hugging.

And if even that feels weird, hop on a plane. In about half the world, it’s hugging that is rude, not not hugging. N or N Rating: 1 You’re not a nut; you’re just stuck in a hug-happy culture.