The difference between a romantic touch and friendly affection?

[Anonymous]

How do you tell whether a touch from a guy is meant to be friendly or romantic? For example, a quick shoulder massage from one person might mean nothing other than "I care about you and am just reaffirming that" and its just like a quick hug. While for others it might be their way of trying to clue you in on deeper romantic feelings. How do you tell?

Updates

+1 y

I am not referring to pervs in this case, just genuine, good guys who you already know well.

[oaknuggins]

It depends on many factors, mostly what the relationship between the two of you is. If he is doing it very softly and slowly its more likely to be a romantic kind of touch, if its more casual, then obviously its more likely to be friendly. Generally you can tell just by feel, ie the environment, the way they are looking at you etc. It should be quite obvious if he wants it to be romantic.

[Asker]

Thank you, thats a fantastic answer! :)
In my particular case I think it was more leaning toward romantic (we are pretty close friends but he usually isn't touchy and my example was not the only flirty-ish occurence that day. And your comment about the way he is looking at you... his eye contact was pretty deep.) But I hope this info will be helpful for others, too.

[SuitAndTie]

Romantic touch = small of your back
Friendly touch = middle/higher up of your back

[John_Doesnt]

All touching from a man is bad and potential rape.

[Asker]

Ugh. Sure...