I think the fear of abandonment is a real issue with men. One I wish I was aware of earlier. Due to childhood trauma, and family dynamics, I learned that love was only conditional based on the good I did. That when I was behaved or did good things, I would get love and attention. But when I was just “normal” or needed attention, then it wasn’t given as freely. This pattern continued in my life with friend groups and relationships. People would love the nice, fun, energetic me, but when the sad or insecure parts would raise their heads (usually when I thought I was safe to express them) people would leave. This taught me that love is conditional and if you aren’t always your best self, people you love will leave. This is something that I struggle with to this day and causes issues in my relationships. Any other men struggle with this?
