A Cuban in Spain (@legmy_) has caused a stir on TikTok after sharing a video in which she confesses her difficulty in making friends. "I have been in Spain for 7 years. In the 7 years I have been here, I haven't made a single friend. Not one. All the friendships I have are old ones." She continued, "I don't know, I'm not good at socializing and with each passing day I feel embarrassed to approach people or start a conversation. Tell me if you feel exactly the same way or if it's just me who has a problem," the young woman expressed.
The video quickly went viral and has sparked intense debate in the comments, where many users shared similar experiences. Some claimed they have also had trouble forming friendships with Spaniards, while others argued that the issue is not about nationality, but rather about attitude and circumstances. "I am Spanish, and I find it amusing when I hear that Spaniards are very sociable. I don't think so at all. We are people who enjoy the streets, but with a closed circle," commented one user.
Others argued that it all depends on the region and personal disposition. "I have lived here for 23 years and I do have great Spanish friends. I think it depends on the circumstances," said one user. Meanwhile, a Cuban resident in Valencia responded, "I also live in Valencia and I have the same experience." In Andalusia, according to some comments, the situation might be different, as "people there are more empathetic, but it is challenging to integrate at first."
The debate also brought to light the impact of age and technology on the formation of friendships. "I think the blame lies with new technologies and social networks. People prefer their phones for socializing," commented one user, while another pointed out that "friendships in Spain are often formed from childhood and remain over the years." In this regard, some believe it is difficult to fit into already established groups.
The video has highlighted a reality that affects many people, especially migrants who arrive in a country with different customs. While some see the lack of friendships as a personal issue, others view it as a reflection of Spanish culture and the challenges of integrating into certain social environments.
Frequently asked questions about the difficulty of Cubans socializing in Spain
Why hasn't the young Cuban woman in Spain been able to make friends in the country?
The young Cuban has expressed that, despite living in Spain for seven years, she has not made any new friends. She attributes this situation to her difficulty in socializing and the increase in her embarrassment when trying to initiate conversations, which has sparked a debate about the cultural and personal barriers that some migrants face when integrating into new societies.
What factors can influence the difficulty of making friends in Spain?
Several factors can influence the difficulty of making friends in Spain, such as cultural differences, personal attitude, and the specific circumstances of each region. Some users pointed out that in certain areas of Spain, like Andalusia, people may be more empathetic, but initially integrating can be challenging. Additionally, the reliance on social media and the formation of friendships from childhood in Spain can be other factors that make it difficult to establish new connections.
What role do social media play in the socialization of migrants?
Social media can be both an enabling and limiting tool in the socialization of migrants. Some participants in the debate on TikTok suggest that new technologies have led people to prefer socializing through mobile devices, which can reduce face-to-face interactions and, consequently, hinder the formation of friendships in the real world.
How can age affect the formation of friendships in a new country?
Age can significantly influence the creation of friendships when emigrating to a new country. As people age, they may become more selective in their relationships and have fewer opportunities to meet new people, especially if they are not immersed in environments like university or work, where social interactions are more common.
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