I Have Plans with an Old Friend. Can Men Really Be Just Friends?

I Have Plans With An Old Friend Can Men Really Be Just Friends
Updated:
Dr. Wendy Walsh
Lillian Castro

By: Dr. Wendy Walsh

Editor: Lillian Castro

Our dating experts guide readers step-by-step through relationship challenges and romantic decisions in our popular series of advice articles.

Reader Question:

I have plans with an old friend of more than 20 years. At that time, he had expressed on more than one occasion he had a crush on me. Since that time, we have both been married and divorced but have remained in contact through our circle of friends.

I am certain I have romantic feelings for him, but how do I know what his feelings/intentions are? Can men really be “just friends” with women?

-Elaine (Michigan)

Dr. Wendy Walsh’s Answer:

Dear Elaine,

NO. Even men who swear they are “just friends” with women will take at least sex if it is available.

Just spend some time with him. Decide if you still like him.

Looking at the past with rose-colored glasses is not the same as staring at him with clear vision today. Either one of you may have changed. No need to rush into anything.


No counseling or psychotherapy advice: The Site does not provide psychotherapy advice. The Site is intended only for use by consumers in search of general information of interest pertaining to problems people may face as individuals and in relationships and related topics. Content is not intended to replace or serve as substitute for professional consultation or service. Contained observations and opinions should not be misconstrued as specific counseling advice.

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About the Author

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Dr. Wendy Walsh

By: Dr. Wendy Walsh

Women's Dating Expert

Known as America's Relationship Expert, Dr. Wendy Walsh is an award-winning television journalist, radio host & podcaster, and the author of three books on relationships and thousands of print and digital articles. More than 1.5 million people follow her sage advice on social media. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and teaches in the Psychology Department at California State University Channel Islands and has been the host of "The Dr. Wendy Walsh Show" on iHeart Radio's KFI AM 640 since 2015. Walsh is also a former Emmy-nominated co-host of "The Doctors," as well as former host of the nationally syndicated show "EXTRA." She was named a Time Magazine Person of the Year in 2017 after speaking out about harassment at a major news network.

See Dr. Wendy's full bio »

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