Fear of Commitment: Holden portrays a fear of commitment and vulnerability that stems from his past experiences with relationships and his view of the adult world. He doesn't want to be tied down or "plugged into" the phony conventions and responsibilities of adulthood.
Insecurities: Holden exhibits a low self-esteem and lacks confidence in himself. He feels inferior and inadequate compared to others and fears rejection. These insecurities make him hesitant to engage in intimate relationships.
Rejection and Loneliness: Holden has a fear of abandonment rooted in the loss of his younger brother Allie and his strained relationships with his parents and peers. He shields himself from intimacy to protect himself from potential hurt and loneliness.
Need for Independence: Holden emphasizes his desire to remain free and independent. He doesn't want to be constrained or controlled by conventional societal norms and relationships, which he sees as stifling and superficial.
Symbolic Loss of Innocence: Intimacy, especially physical intimacy, is often seen as a symbol of the loss of innocence and the transition into adulthood. Holden's resistance to intimacy could represent his subconscious desire to preserve his childhood innocence and avoid growing up.
These factors converge to create Holden's reluctance to engage in intimate relationships, reflecting the complexities of his own psychological and emotional state as he struggles with his identity, adolescence, and the transition into adulthood.