There could be various reasons why this guy gets mad at you for talking to other guys, even if he isn't your boyfriend. Some possible explanations include:
Unexpressed feelings: He might have feelings for you that he hasn't communicated openly. Seeing you interact with other guys could trigger feelings of jealousy or insecurity, leading to his negative reactions.
Possessiveness: Some individuals can be possessive, even in non-romantic relationships. He might feel a sense of ownership over your interactions and become upset when he perceives other guys as potential threats to his connection with you.
Fear of losing the friendship: If he values your friendship and is afraid that your interactions with other guys might lead to changes in your dynamic, he might react with frustration or anger to protect what he perceives as the status quo.
Miscommunication: Perhaps he perceives your interactions with other guys differently from how you intend them. Miscommunication can lead to misunderstandings and emotional reactions.
Insecurity: If he struggles with low self-esteem or self-confidence, he might interpret your interactions with other guys as a reflection of his inadequacy or fear of being replaced.
Unhealthy boundaries: He might have blurred boundaries and expect a level of exclusivity or attention from you that isn't appropriate for a non-romantic relationship.
Regardless of the reasons, it's essential to address the situation in a healthy and respectful manner. Here's how you can handle it:
Communicate openly: If you feel comfortable, have a conversation with him to understand his feelings and concerns better. Be honest about your perspective and boundaries while actively listening to his side as well.
Set boundaries: If his expectations are unreasonable, kindly assert your right to have other friendships and social interactions. Reiterate that you value your friendship with him but that it doesn't mean you are exclusive to each other.
Clarify your intentions: Make sure your actions and communication clearly reflect the nature of your relationship with him. Be transparent about your feelings and intentions to avoid misunderstandings.
Be empathetic: Try to understand where he's coming from and acknowledge his feelings without necessarily agreeing with his behavior. Empathy can help de-escalate conflicts and foster better communication.
Respect your feelings: If his reactions continue to cause distress or discomfort, consider reassessing the dynamics of your relationship and setting boundaries that prioritize your well-being.
Remember that each individual and relationship is unique, so it's crucial to handle the situation based on your specific context. If the issue persists or becomes emotionally challenging, seeking advice from a trusted friend or a professional counselor might be beneficial.