Jerry is not a character in *The Outsiders*. It's possible you are thinking of Darrel (Darry) Curtis, Ponyboy's older brother. Darrel's treatment of Ponyboy surprises him because:
* Darrel is strict and often harsh: Darrel has to be the father figure in the family and takes on a lot of responsibility for his younger brothers. This can lead to him being strict and even seeming cruel to Ponyboy at times.
* Ponyboy expects to be treated like the "baby" of the family: Ponyboy is the youngest of the brothers and feels that he's often treated like a child. He wants to be seen as more mature and capable, which is why he often feels frustrated by Darrel's treatment.
* Darrel's love and care are often hidden: Darrel's love and concern for Ponyboy are often expressed through tough love and sometimes even through harsh words. This can be confusing for Ponyboy, who often struggles to understand his brother's intentions.
* Darrel shows a softer side in unexpected moments: While Darrel's actions can often surprise Ponyboy, there are moments where he displays a more caring side, showing a more compassionate and loving nature. These moments are often unexpected and therefore quite impactful for Ponyboy.
Overall, Darrel's unexpected actions and the way he expresses his love and care, often through seemingly harsh means, are what surprises Ponyboy throughout the novel.