Tisha, another strategy I use when I notice passive-aggressive or attention-seeking behaviours is to turn on the "happy" mood. It's easier for me to do because I have young children so I engage in play with them while also including dad somehow.. the including dad is the important piece, as if you're "oblivious" to what's happening and are "just having loving fun". .. then BAM with the grey rock if he becomes direct about whatever "issue" he has.. and alternating between the two.

Not sure if this makes sense or not.