Uncomfortable with compliments???

Question

I'm 20 years old and in college, majoring in chemistry. I'm a pretty intelligent person and really enjoy hanging out and having fun with my friends. I like working with kids/teens so I'm aspiring to be a chemistry teacher.

Anyway, growing up, I've always been teased. Not in a mean or rude way. More like playful banter. Most of my friends have been guys so most of them have just teased me playfully which I'm totally OK with.

It's all in good fun and I don't mind it at all. However, what I've noticed is that I'd rather someone tease me about something than compliment me. When someone compliments me or actually says something nice to me, I don't know how to respond. I say "Thank You" of course but it makes me uncomfortable. Usually, compliments about my physical appearance are what makes me most uncomfortable.

But then again, if someone compliments me on something I personally have done or something about my character, I appreciate that a lot and it means a lot to me.

I'm probably just rambling and I don't even know if this is a valid question but I'm curious to what you think. Is this strange? Am I making a big deal out of nothing?

Answer 1

absolutely NOT!

i always get very uncomfortable and dont know how to respond when im compleneted about my appearence, especially by close family members or friends. dont worry its absolutely normal :D

Answer 2

i get the exact same way. it is totally normal!!!!

Answer 3

I think you handle yourself beautifully.  Just say THANK YOU....  when you dont take a compliment you come of as insecure and down on yourself, men dont like that.  I understand how compliments can make you feel uncomfortable, but just smile and say thank you.  if it is offensive, that is different.

Answer 4

no i can understand that ur not rambling. i can relate i feel like that all the time. when i was a kid i was really ugly and depressed so it was hard to have friends. strangely enough i guess it was ugly duckling syndrome, ppl compliment me now and i get asked out often. but when i look in the mirror i still see the ugly little kid, so compliments are weird. maybe that story can help, i hope it does. you just have to remember that the times when you were teased was long ago, it is in the past put it behind you.  think teasing can be hurtful whether it is intentional or not but compliments are always meant to be nice. so take ur pic i guess :)