I was shy in school, says Rooney Mara

Los Angeles: Actress Rooney Mara says she was unable to connect with other children during her school days and often spent time by herself.

The 28-year-old, known for her work in movies like 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' and 'The Social Network' found it difficult to get comfortable with other people, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"I was very, very, shy. I had problems with anxiety and not being able to relate to other people. I would spend all my free time in school by myself. I couldn't relate to other people or get myself to feel comfortable hanging around with other kids in school and it wasn't the happiest time of my life," LOOK magazine quoted Mara as saying.

She still prefers to stay alone sometimes.

"It took me a long time before I felt more at ease making friends and not putting up walls around me. I still like the time I spend alone, just thinking by myself or watching people. I need that kind of quiet time," she said.