My boyfriend, and I, have been dating for about 6 months; knowing each other for about a year.

He has told me that he comes from a family that shows no emotions. No hugging, no kissing, no "I Love You's", no affection, whatsoever. Well, I (too) came from the same type of family. No one every held me, told me that they "loved me", hugged me or made me feel like I was loved.

My concern is this....

My boyfriend does not like "hugs" from me. I ask him, for hugs, and I can "feel" or tell that he does not like me doing so. In fact, the last time I saw him, he told me that it makes him feel uncomfortable because he grew up without love or hugs.

I have grown "emotionally" and spiritually (in my life) and have learned to love, hug and be affectionate. I like and enjoy showing my love, caring and appreciation for this man, but now it seems to be getting in the way of our relationship.

I guess this is all about communicating.

I'm feeling rejected, because he is unwilling to even "touch" my arm, or just pat me on the back, or "feel" with me.

What can I say, to this man, to help him along? He seems that he does not want to even "try", but at other times he seems willing to be able to try and work on this issue.

Can someone be so "hurt" from the past that they will never "ever" get over their non-loving/non-affectionate parents?

I have had sex, with this man, and he does touch and feel during our lovemaking, but he just cannot seem to open up and just let things happen.

Know what I mean?

I'm wondering if this 'relationship' is going to be worth the effort? Maybe I need someone that is "more affectionate", to me. That might be the bottom line.

Please HELP!

Feeling Rejected