Would it work to speak with your son, sharing that he can talk about his feelings with you and describing what you shared in your post?

There are also books such as It's so much work to be your friend which may provide helpful insight and tips.

Have you seen these articles from the Davidson Database on friendships?
2005 Dr. Fred Frankel http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Articles_id_10352.aspx
2006 Miraca Gross http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Articles_id_10400.aspx
2007 Fr. Fred Frankel http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Articles_id_10484.aspx
2010 Annette Sheely http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Articles_id_10628.aspx
2011 Dr. Fred Frankel http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Articles_id_10686.aspx