Boy Friend? Girl Friend? Islam? A View

Boy, Girl Friend and Islam? Our times! There are some strict Muslim people who advise that no boy friend or girl friend by any measure. They go to the limit of no expression of love should be extended, no sitting together extended and no phone calla allowed. This goes so much in our societies and may lead to the rejection of Isla. The opinion as long as there is no sexual touching, kissing or deeper forbidden relationship some sort offriendship should be allowed.
The pressures on young Muslims in North America and Europe is great.
On the other hand if some one do not want a boy or girl friend. This should be permitted also.