Does listening to girl's problems always lead to friendzone? I know talking about her past boyfriends/abusive relationships is a big no-no and ignore a girl who only talk to you when she has problems, but if I am genuinely interested in her problem that may concern her job, society or some other topic, should I still change the subject to keep the conversation on more elevated levels? What if it is combined with cocky/funny attitude from time to time and kino escalation, can it aid in creating a deep emotional connection? I know every rule is meant to be broken, but I am interested in your general advice. Thanks guys.

Being C&F about someone's genuine problem which they'd like to forget will get you nowhere.

I would say it's about balance and CONTEXT as with most things in life.

You don't want to:
- be constantly listening to her complain about her problems, to the point that it's all the conversation ever focuses on
- be listening to anything about past romantic interests

You ALSO don't want to:
- be the dickhead who blows her off when she has had a horrible day and really needs to vent, lol

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what dr. house brings to medicine, i bring to everyday life (an extreme dose of cynicism), don't listen to the curmudgeon!

Great response Mack, thanks.