'Friends' equivalent for Java?

java design-patterns friend
Alex Lim picture Alex Lim · Dec 18, 2008 · Viewed 55.5k times · Source

having a little architectural trouble here.

In C++, we have the notion of 'friends,' where such friend classes can access private members.

So, I'm deving a Java app and trying to adhere to the MVC architecture. I've got a controller class that manages graph connectivity between 'map_objects.' I'd like to hide the function in the DTO 'map_objects' that actuall sets up these connectivities, by using this controller class.

(Ie, even if the controller class implements the required functionality of setting up connectivities, the 'users' can still access setter/getter functions in the the DTO directly to set them up themselves.)

Are there any design patterns or tips in this regard? (Or have I totally mucked up?)

DUPLICATE Is there a way to simulate the C++ 'friend' concept in Java?

Answer

Julien Chastang picture Julien Chastang · Dec 18, 2008

(Un)fortunately, there is no direct C++ friend equivalent in Java. However, the Java access level modifiers can assist you. In particular, private or package private (AKA package protected, or "default") may help.

Related questions

Examples of GoF Design Patterns in Java's core libraries

I am learning GoF Java Design Patterns and I want to see some real life examples of them. What are some good examples of these Design Patterns in Java's core libraries?

Read More
What is an efficient way to implement a singleton pattern in Java?

What is an efficient way to implement a singleton pattern in Java?

Read More
MVC pattern on Android

Is it possible to implement the model–view–controller pattern in Java for Android? Or is it already implemented through Activities? Or is there a better way to implement the MVC pattern for Android?

Read More