It's essential to remember that every individual is unique, and the reasons behind your boyfriend's feelings may vary. However, there could be several potential reasons for his reaction:
Insecurity: Your boyfriend might feel insecure or inadequate when you spend time with your friends. He might fear that you will have more fun or develop stronger connections with them, leading to feelings of jealousy or possessiveness.
Miscommunication: There may be a lack of communication about the importance of your friendships and the need for maintaining them. He might not understand how infrequent your hangouts are and could misinterpret the situation as a threat to your relationship.
Past experiences: If your boyfriend has been hurt or abandoned in previous relationships, he may have developed a fear of being left behind again. This fear could lead to an emotional response when you spend time away from him, even if it's with your friends.
Different expectations: Both of you might have different expectations regarding the amount of time you spend together and apart. If he prefers more quality time together, he might not feel fulfilled by the frequency of your friend hangouts.
Codependency: Your boyfriend might have a codependent personality, where he relies heavily on your presence for emotional well-being. When you spend time with your friends, he might feel a sense of loss or emptiness.
Inadequate social life: If your boyfriend doesn't have a strong social circle of his own, he might feel left out or lonely when you hang out with your friends, which could contribute to his negative emotions.
Regardless of the reasons, it's crucial to have open and honest communication with your boyfriend. Talk to him about your perspective on the situation and listen to his feelings and concerns as well. Try to understand each other's needs and find a balance that works for both of you. Healthy relationships allow for personal space and time with friends, as well as quality time as a couple. If the issue persists and becomes a source of significant conflict, you might consider seeking guidance from a couples counselor or therapist to work through these challenges together.