Is Your Boyfriend's Overly Friendly Nature a Red Flag? One Woman's Shocking Concern

Dear Eric: I'm a woman in a new relationship with a fabulous man who doesn't seem to understand an issue I've brought to his attention. I noted recently that when he checks out other women in front of me, I feel disrespected. He listened and said he understood completely.

This scenario may sound quite familiar, as it reflects a common concern that can be a major cause of tension and conflict in relationships. The woman's concern is not merely about her partner checking out other women, but how he goes about it - seemingly without regards for her feelings.

It's not uncommon for people to notice attractive individuals around them. In fact, research suggests that this is simply part of the natural human behavior. However, when such behavior is exhibited openly and in a way that makes one's partner feel uncomfortable or disrespected, it's understandable that the issue would be problematic.

The woman's partner has seemingly acknowledged her concern by stating that he understands completely. However, it seems he doesn't fully grasp the issue at hand. Understanding a problem goes beyond just verbal acknowledgment, it involves action and a genuine effort to make a change.

What the woman's partner needs to recognize is that her concerns transcend an assumption that he might be interested in someone else. It has more to do with how he chooses to express his reactions. Openly checking out someone else in her presence can give the impression that he doesn't value her feelings or doesn't care about her being made to feel uncomfortable.

It would be crucial for the woman's partner to demonstrate self-awareness and implement a more empathetic approach. Merely being aware of the issue doesn't solve the problem, but taking constructive steps to address the concern is where the relationship can actually benefit. Acknowledging the negative feelings it stirs in his partner and taking steps to avoid such actions can imply empathy and that he is genuinely committed to preserving the relationship.

The woman's partner needs to understand that curbing this issue takes more than just verbally accepting her discontent. An open show of interest in other women might make his partner feel disrespected in the relationship. Ultimately, this issue could function as a 'make-or-break' factor in the relationship as her partner navigates the path to making the needed adjustments.

To reclaim the trust and integrity in the relationship, her partner must apply the following advice: understand that verbal agreement is meaningless without action; go beyond just acknowledging a problem and aim to bring about lasting, positive change in his behavior.