25 Ways to Show You Love Him

11. "It makes me feel good when I know my girlfriend depends on me." —Theo, 17
That doesn't mean being clingy, overly needy, or way demanding. It means going to him when you need an opinion, when you're feeling out of sorts or upset. Nothing makes a guy feel stronger than knowing he can help you when you're hurting.

12. "When I'm away from my girlfriend, I want to know she misses me." —Andrew, 18
Playing it too cool makes you a fool! Tell him you were thinking about him when you were apart. Not just yearning for him, but wishing him well, wherever he was and whatever he was doing. More and more, you'll discover that he was thinking about you, too, at the exact same moment and with the same positive attitude.

13. "I want to know she supports me and believes in me." —Charlie, 16
Help him see past the present to what could be in the future. Listen to his dreams and focus on how he can achieve them. When he succeeds in any step along the way, reward him by noticing. Cheer for him. Whether he plays sports or is involved in other extracurricular activities, attend as many events as you can and yell your head off (unless it's chess or something). If you're too busy to show up, let him know that you're there for him in spirit, and celebrate his best efforts at another time.

14. "I want a relationship — I just hate screaming fights!" —Dave, 17
Settle arguments so that you both win. Don't shout, don't blame. Instead, focus on learning why you're both upset and finding new attitudes or ways to prevent the problem in the future. Apologize if you know you've done something cruddy, but don't dwell on it. If you've made a mistake, admit it sincerely and move on. By the same token, never rub it in if you were right and accept his apology gracefully. Forgive him. Everyone screws up sometimes. If he says he's sorry and/or acts sorry, believe it. Try not to mention it again.

15. "I want her to accept me for who I am." —Terrell, 17
He's a boy, not a lump of clay. There's a reason behind all his likes and dislikes. Don't try to change him or make him fit your image of the perfect guy. Don't judge or criticize. He's not your personal project. He is who he is: If you dig that, great, if not ... find someone else.