By: Greg Douglas, LMHC
Men: Top 3 Complaints
After years of working with couples I have compiled my Top 3 Complaints for each sex. This week we look at the top 3 complaints men in relationships have.
Complaint #1: Lack of Appreciation
Almost every single man I have seen in couples therapy cites a lack of appreciation from his female partner. These men see themselves as working hard for their families, making sacrifices, and doing more than their fathers and grandfathers ever did.
Both partners need appreciation, but men seem to need it more than women. Many men see the lack of appreciation voiced by their female partners and come to this conclusion: “It doesn’t matter how much I do it will never be enough!” Don’t let your man get here. Do him a favor and look to find ways to appreciate what he brings to the table.
Complaint #2: Not Enough Sex
No surprise here! While men complaining about a lack of sex is expected, the true reasons behind the complaint may be misunderstood. Right or wrong most men view sex as the litmus test in their relationship. If their partner wants to have sex, men feel a sense of approval. If their partner is uninterested in sex, it means they are failing.
Men also see sex as the one area they can truly let themselves be vulnerable and emotionally open. Take this away and expect to see a more closed-down version of your partner. The need men have for sex is much the same as the need women have for emotional connection. You might not agree that sex is that important, but rest assured, it is to him.
Complaint #3: Way too Critical
“She is on my case about everything I do, it just seems like nothing I do is good enough for her!”
Men screw up. Men screw up a lot. We all know this, but how we choose to deal with it is what makes the difference. If your man screws up or does a task in a way that is far from what you would do, feel free to give feedback. Just make sure you give feedback in a way that is non-critical. The more criticism he feels, the less motivation he will have to make changes.
Douglas Counseling Knows Men
Douglas Counseling specializes in helping men learn to be better partners. Most men never saw a good model for being a great husband, so how are they supposed to do it without the right tools for the job. Douglas Counseling offers men the tools, mindsets, and knowledge they need to take their relationships to the next level.
If you would like more information or would like to schedule a free consultation, please call (561) 207-1903 and visit us online at www.DouglasCounseling.com.
