There is no need to feel compelled by others to believe that you cannot get by on your own. The perceived 'need' for constant interaction often stems from cultural and societal influences. This fosters a groupthink mentality and an addiction to seeking constant validation.

Why are some of my friends disrespectful of my boundaries?
People are like puppets, even more so today with what is parroted on our 'screens.' The power dynamics among peers, as well as the need for constant validation and group conformity, all play into the mix. Often, many of these individuals who feel the perceived need to group up do so out of fear rather than some professed inherent need.

Learning about group dynamics outside the sphere of cultural conditioning has helped me see why people all over the world have become more self-centered and disrespectful. Be very wary of people who tell you what you 'need.' That's just more parroting.

I can only share what I know from my own experience and the knowledge that gels well with me. I guess you could say I am what many refer to as a lifeless blob, the Western take on mindfulness. I'm typing, so I can't be that. My take is often ostracized for what 'others' consider as vulnerability. That's how fear works and our society is full of it because it constantly projects it, often behind a mask of happiness.

My suggestion would not be to see these people in a negative light. We have enough name-calling, and when doing so ourselves, we just manifest more suffering by reacting. This group mentality lives in their own fear, often projecting their own vulnerabilities by highlighting that of others. It helps to see these people as victims, but don't treat them as such because that just plays into the love bombing we often see in forums such as these. That being yet another group dynamic based on all kinds of 'created' 'needs.'

Open Door Policy:
With the above insights in mind, I maintain an open door policy while still communicating my limits and discomfort. How I convey this is crucial, and actions can speak louder than words. Avoiding excessive verbalization often proves effective for me. Others may struggle more in this regard, so occasionally, I find it helpful to step out of my comfort zone to provide assistance.

My primary principle is to refrain from reacting. Once I do that, individuals caught in the group trap will eagerly belittle me in their attempts to outdo one another.

Similar to being labeled a lifeless blob, I am often called a hermit, weirdo, recluse, social outcast, and so on. However, it is essential for me to refrain from internalizing their projections and, more importantly, the negative energy they carry.

For me, understanding the reasons behind such labeling is just one aspect of the equation; the other is learning to embrace the reality I find myself in. This involves dismantling boundaries imposed by others and letting go of those I have set up myself. Boundaries tend to create conflicts rather than earning me respect. Nevertheless, the few that remain should still be honored. As for why they are often disregarded, it all comes down to group dynamics and social conditioning. People connect more out of fear than they do because of some professed need.

Just be yourself regardless of what others perceive.