Hi,

I'm new here and am trying to figure out what's wrong with me! Sound pathetic, but true.

I can't make friends. I never have been able to and I can't figure out why. I'm an adult, but have had this problem since junior high. I'm normal looking, educated, knowledgeable of pop culture, have a sense of humor, am not handicapped, etc. I'm a mom and belong to a moms group, as well as a church. I can't even connect with those people.

I usually hang out with someone once or twice and they never want to again. I think I actually make people feel very uncomfortable, but I can't figure out how. It's almost as if they truly don't like me...not that they're just not interested. It seems as if they almost avoid me after having a conversation (or several conversations). It's so bad that even the boring people, nerds, or ones who've admitted that they don't make friends well don't even hang out with me.

I don't stutter. I don't think I have any twitches or strange expressions. I've even tried to watch other people to see how they act and it still doesn't work for me. I don't think I'm rude or have a strange laugh. I ask questions and try to remember details, so I can follow up. I don't call people or act needy. I don't gossip or cuss (not too much at least : ). I've asked people to hang out and often times they'll say sure, but don't follow up.

I've asked my husband what he thinks, for I worry our kids will be the same way. He says there is nothing wrong with me. Maybe he's weird too.

My son does have a mild case of Asperger's, so I wonder if I'm exhibiting similar characteristics? I've often been treated disrespectfully. Meaning, in the past people (co-workers & acquaintances, not family) feel like they can snap up at me, etc.

There is something about me, but I don't know what. I'm incredibly caring and I would feel awful if anyone thought I was mean or rude or weird. however, that must be what this is.

Help. I don't want my kids to be this way.