Side Hugs? Or Rejection?

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photo credited to Sachi K.

Side hugs can have both good and bad meanings.

Elena C., Hailey M., and Amy Z.

Side hugs. While controversial, we have to discuss them sometime. Ever felt rejected because you got a side hug? Sadly, we all have…many times. On the plus side, it’s a good way to show someone straight up that you don’t like them.

Let’s be honest here, they are so awkward! You’re obviously not getting a kiss.  But you’re also not getting a hug? Is it on par with a handshake?  What is it?! It could simply mean that you are just friends…or it could mean the hugger doesn’t like you enough to give you a real hug. Side hugs leave you confused. You constantly wonder “what just happened?”

“If it’s a relationship, then it’s like you got friend-zoned. And it kind of sucks,” says seventh grader, Nick G.

On a brighter side, there are advantages to the so-called “side hug.” In a rush? No need to worry! Side hugs to the rescue! Just imagine: You’re already late for that killer science test and suddenly, out of nowhere, a “friend” from school comes over. They start to lean in for a full-on hug. What do you do? A jiu-jitsu side-hug. Fast and easy! Now you’re on your way again!

“If you give someone a side-hug they’re just like your friend not your close friend,” says Sarah K.

But, in the end, it’s your decision. Side hugs? Or nah…We pick nah.