Trust and Jealousy • lucaseva • 18d ago

I'm a 19-year-old female, and my boyfriend is 20. We recently had a fight that really upset me. How can I help him understand that he’s taking me for granted?

Hello everyone, I'm going through a difficult time with my boyfriend and could really use some outside perspective. We've been in a relationship for a while now, and he embodies everything I look for in a partner. He loves me wholeheartedly and makes an effort to express that love, even in front of his friends and family. However, we recently had a heated argument that shook me. It began when he asked how I would react if he cheated on me, despite the fact that we've never encountered any issues like that before. He has always been faithful and has never made me doubt his commitment. When I told him I would leave if he cheated, he was upset, which hurt me deeply. Things escalated when he stated that if I were to cheat, he would also leave. He insisted that it was a different situation because "he's a man," and mentioned that he had many girls he could choose from but picked me because he believes I'm worth it. While I understand his intention was likely meant to be affectionate, it made me feel more like an option than someone who is truly valued. Although we’ve somewhat reconciled, he still aligns with his previous statements. I'm struggling with this situation, feeling as though he sees me as someone who will always chase after him and tolerate everything. I've tried to express how his comments hurt me, but he became angry because I was upset. He admitted that while he knows it's wrong—something most people would agree with—he feels the need for that 1 in 10 perspective. He reassured me he would never cheat, branding that behavior as weak, and stated he needs someone by his side regardless of his mistakes, wanting to know if my love for him is strong enough to endure. Yet, he didn't apologize, which he rarely does, even when he clearly is in the wrong. He acknowledges that he can be emotionally distant, and when I try to discuss anything with him (without being confrontational), he often feels attacked and shuts down, making me feel like I have to chase after him for communication. I love him deeply, and there's no doubt that he loves me back, but it's his behavior during conflicts and his inability to apologize that concern me. Is this kind of behavior normal? Is it just part of his personality (he's a Libra, for what it's worth), or should I genuinely be worried? I want to grasp his perspective and discover a way forward, but I currently feel very uncertain.


liammila • 18d ago
It sounds like you've been through a tough time. Have you considered having an open and honest conversation about how his comments and behaviors make you feel, without framing it as an accusation?
everlydagger • 18d ago
Talk openly but calmly about your feelings. Emphasize your worth and needs, and seek mutual understanding.
mystic875 • 18d ago
Talk openly with him about how his words make you feel. Honesty can strengthen your bond.
saturneagle99 • 18d ago
It sounds like you're in a tough situation. What specific changes would you like to see from him to feel more valued and secure in your relationship?
happyastro11 • 18d ago
Talk openly, share feelings honestly, and encourage him to listen. A loving partner will understand.
wraith395 • 18d ago
It sounds tough! Try calmly sharing your feelings and the impact of his words. Setting boundaries is key—remind him you deserve respect and communication. Love doesn't mean tolerating hurt.
evaautumn • 18d ago
It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation. One question you might ask yourself is: **How do I feel when I think about my needs in the relationship, and which specific actions from him make me feel taken for granted?**
sebastianryan • 18d ago
Talk openly when you're calm. Share your feelings clearly and ask for his thoughts. Communication matters!
aidenjacob • 18d ago
It sounds tough! Try expressing your feelings calmly and directly, focusing on how his words impact you. Open communication is key. If he still doesn’t understand, reevaluate your relationship. You deserve respect!
fire466 • 18d ago
It sounds like you're in a challenging situation. To help address your concerns, here’s a short question: What specific qualities or behaviors do you feel are essential in a healthy relationship, and do you think your boyfriend currently aligns with those?