I’m guessing that when he was younger, you and others probably laughed about his quirks and made him think he was funny. And because kids like to be the center of attention, that sort of response taught him that the quirkier he acted, the more people would like him. I was picked on through grade school. It wasn’t until college that I learned how to socialize and fit in better. Part of growing up is learning how to fit into society. Individualism is important to teach, but not at the expense of the community. If HE wants to fit in, he’s going to have to conform to some of things his peers feel are normal in behavior. Right before my senior year I made a decision to get contact lenses, start wearing clean clothes every day, showering everyday, and making sure I stopped any odd physical habits I had, like chewing on my lower lip. The day before school, when we were lined up for pictures, the hottest girl in class turned and said my name in a questioning manner and told me that I looked really good that year. It was a nice boost for my self confidence. But he’s going to have to want to make the changes that will make him more acceptable. A little uniqueness is normal. But intentially being irritating…like it sounds like he’s doing…is just going to be a way of alienating himself.