If a girl finds herself in a situation where her guy friend says he doesn't want to talk to her anymore because he likes her and she doesn't feel the same way, and then he claims he was just joking, it can be a confusing and hurtful experience. Here's what she can consider doing:
Give herself time to process her feelings: It's essential to allow herself some space and time to understand how she feels about the situation. She may feel hurt, confused, or upset, and that's entirely valid.
Communicate openly and honestly: Once she has sorted through her emotions, she can talk to her friend about the situation. Expressing how she feels and seeking clarity about his intentions can help to understand the situation better.
Set boundaries: If the guy friend was genuinely joking, it's crucial for her to communicate her boundaries clearly. She can let him know that such jokes are hurtful and not acceptable.
Reevaluate the friendship: Depending on the outcome of the conversation, she may need to reevaluate the friendship. If the guy friend genuinely values her as a friend, he should respect her feelings and be willing to continue the friendship without any romantic expectations.
Seek support from other friends or loved ones: Talking to other friends or family members about the situation can provide valuable perspectives and emotional support.
Consider taking a break: If the situation becomes too emotionally overwhelming, she might consider taking a break from the friendship to gain clarity and decide what's best for her.
Trust her instincts: Ultimately, she should trust her instincts and do what feels right for her emotional well-being.
Remember, open communication is crucial in any friendship, especially when faced with such complex emotions. If the guy friend genuinely cares about her, he should be willing to understand her feelings and respect her boundaries. If the friendship cannot be maintained in a healthy and respectful manner, it might be necessary to reevaluate its viability.