Just wondering... when you are in these group situations and you want to hide -what is going through your mind. The kid you spoke of was trying to initiate a conversation, and tbh small talk can be quite easy - simply ask people about themselves, most people love to talk incessantly about themselves. Standard.

I think your dad was kind of out of line with the comment he made, but since he cannot understand what you are going through, maybe cut him some slack.

Your life will never have an easy and straightforward answer, but unless you keep pushing yourself into these situations you will only get progressively worse, until there is no one left by you. People usually discuss similarities as a way of bonding, try not to shun them for saying that you are alike. It is a large form of flattery and perhaps you don't see yourself the way they do. Which could mean you are similar and unaware. Ironically, they say the things in others we cannot stand are actually a reflection of ourselves.

I would try and push forward, all the best...