How to meet men's emotional needs in a relationship

Much is talked about emotional needs in general, but do these differ between men and women? Well, according to experts, some of them do. Though, unlike women’s, men’s emotional needs are not as often discussed. Of course, some are similar to those of women, but there are a few differences when it comes to the things that makes men feel loved and content in a relationship.

In this gallery, we delve into the world of men's emotional needs and how you can meet them so you both can enjoy a more fulfilling relationship.

What are emotional needs?

Like physiological needs, emotional needs must be met in order for us to feel fulfilled, at peace, and indeed happy.

Emotional connection really matters for men

Contrary to popular belief, many men actually cheat because they feel their emotional needs are not met in their relationships. According to research conducted by sociology professor Dr. Alicia M. Walker, "Where a lack of physical satisfaction at home motivates women to seek out affairs, men crave the emotional connection and support their spouse neglects to provide."

Respect

Everyone needs and wants to feel respected, but this is a big deal for men. Respect is associated with a high level of competence and appreciation, which many men strive for.

Acceptance

Being accepted for who they are and what they are is very important for men. It’s recognition that they are enough, and that they don’t need to become someone else. Men want to feel like they are accepted and therefore belong in that relationship.

Trust

If a man doesn’t trust his partner or doesn’t feel like his partner trusts him, then that’s bad news for the relationship. Trust really is important and one of the key things that make him feel safe in a relationship.

Affection

Affection, in its many forms, is very important for men in an intimate relationship. Physical touch in particular plays a big role in a man expressing love and feeling it in return. Have you ever wondered why men high five and hug each other in celebration? Touch is indeed a strong indication of connection, and in a romantic relationship it’s no different.

Affirmation

In addition to physical affection, words of affirmation can also go a long way. Men value them and it makes them feel loved for who and what they are.

Physical desire

Physical attraction is key in a relationship and men need to feel like they are desired by their partners. “Men also feel loved and connected through intimacy, often to a greater degree than women do. Whereas women often need to feel emotionally connected as a prelude to intimacy, men often need to feel physically connected before they can connect emotionally,” explains Dr. Bobby.

Honesty

A man values honesty in a relationship, and indeed it's something that makes him feel secure. If a man feels his partner hasn’t been honest with him, this deeply affects his trust and emotional connection.

Security

Men need to feel they’re the one and only in their partner's lives. They need to feel secure that their partners are not going anywhere if they make a mistake, and that the relationship is a safety net. Indeed, men need to feel their partners will be there for them.

Support

Men need to feel supported both in and out of the relationship. They want to feel like you understand and respect their job and their hobbies, because these are a great part of who they are.

Compliment him

Some positive words can really hit the spot in a man’s heart. As Dr. Bobby puts it, “Smile at them, and explicitly offer gratitude, praise, and words of affection.”

Show interest in his hobbies and the things he likes

This not only shows you care, but also shows you are supportive of the things he likes to do. This really matters to men, and it can strengthen the bond between you two.

Listen to him

Some men might not communicate as openly or as clearly as some women would like to, but they express their feelings, emotions, and worries nonetheless. This means being open to the way he communicates, even if it’s not the same as yours, and trying to understand the main points. Listen to him as you’d like to be listened to.

Reveal yourself to him

Your man wants to know all about you. He wants to feel like he has the privilege to be the one who you confess everything to. As an added benefit, this increases trust and emotional connection.