Based on the provided quotes, one can assume that frequent tactile contacts between friends may serve as a way to nonverbally express affection, support, and warmth.

The Language of Tender Touch

Based on the provided quotes, one can assume that frequent tactile contacts between friends may serve as a way to nonverbally express affection, support, and warmth. Although the quotes mainly concern family and close relationships with children and adolescents, they emphasize that light and even fleeting touches contribute to a sense of confidence and mutual understanding. For example, one quote states:

"Frequent physical contacts are a sure way to give your teenager a sense of assurance that they truly matter to you. This method is especially suitable when the teenager is introverted, moody, capricious, or stubborn. At such times, it is difficult—and sometimes impossible—to establish eye contact. However, physical contact is almost always possible and available. It is unlikely that a teenager will react negatively to a light, fleeting touch on the shoulder, back, or hand..." (source: link txt)

Similarly, another quote suggests that even if a teenager may be reluctant to verbally display their affection, they still seek physical contact:

"If the teenager persistently grabs your elbow, playfully wrestles, and each time you pass by grabs your leg—it means that physical touch is important to them." (source: link txt)

Applying these insights to interactions between friends, one may conclude that frequent touches (such as on the stomach or elbow) can be a way of showing that one values another person, seeks emotional closeness, and looks for mutual support. This nonverbal signal helps strengthen emotional bonds, creates an atmosphere of trust, and makes people feel that they are not alone in their experiences. Such touches can be considered a kind of "language of tenderness," where physical contact replaces words to convey: "I am here, I support you, and you are dear to me."