| 1. When women are upset, it is not the time to offer solutions, though that may be appropriate at a future time when she is calmed down.
2. A man appreciates advice and criticism when it is requested. Men want to make improvements when they feel they are being approached as a solution to a problem rather than as the problem itself.
3. Men have great needs for status and independence (emphasis on separate and different); women have needs for intimacy and connection (emphasis on close and same).
4. Women need to receive caring, understanding, respect, devotion, validation, and reassurance.
5. Women are motivated when they feel special or cherished.
6. Men need to receive trust, acceptance, appreciation, admiration, approval, encouragement.
7. Men are motivated when they feel needed. A man's deepest fear is that he is not good enough or not competent enough, though he may never express this.
SUMMARY
1. There are major, significant differences between men and women.
2. The differences are different, NOT better or worse. Do not judge the differences. Do not try to change the differences. Do not try to make them go away.
3. These are generalizations! Individual differences exist; we all have some of these qualities.
4. To get along, you MUST accept, expect and respect these differences.
5. Be sure to remember these differences when communicating about anything important, when expressing care and concern, and when solving conflicts. |