The biggest relationship turn-offs for men

The most romantic day of the year is upon us and we’re taking the opportunity to dish on our biggest relationship turn-offs.

Yahoo Canada Shine recently spoke to relationship expert Kimberly Moffit to find out what men say is their biggest turn-off.

Moffit finds that in her practice, women criticizing or second-guessing their partner’s behavior, ideas or opinions is the biggest turn-off cited by men.

She says that while women might not think this nit-picking is a big deal, it can have serious consequences for your relationship.

“Criticizing is emasculating for your partner and can make them feel downright small,” she says. “If you want to make your partner feel great, make them feel like they’re competent.”

Also see: The biggest relationship turn-offs for women

We also asked our readers to share their biggest relationship turn-offs. Here’s what you had to say:

Not surprisingly, nit-picking and complaining was also a frequent turn-off cited by our male readers.

“I would say that if you nit pick on the very first date there won't be a second,” says Yahoo user Boo.

“Expecting more from someone than they are willing to do,” adds Thinking…

“Constant criticism,” says Ajmcleod.

“Telling me what is wrong with me all the time. Just leave if you are unhappy,” says Ordinary Guy.

“Someone who is domineering and controlling would kill it for me,” adds VJ.

Also see: Brutally honest Valentine's Day cards

Communication is another area that has the potential to be a deal-breaker for men.

“I thing that bothers me the most is the details in conversations. Please ladies, you have to understand guys. We normally need to know the reason for the story before you tell it. Its not our fault, that's just how we are. Also we don't need to know every detail. We really want to hear you out. But please make it easy for us. Just for a reference,” writes Justice.

“When she talks I must completely stop whatever I am doing despite being able to multitask. Meanwhile if I what to talk to her, she needs to finish her e mail first because it disturbs her train of thought,” says Smokey.

“Making me repeat something you clearly heard and understood,” adds Richard.

“When our girlfriends/wives expect us to read their minds and understand what they are thinking,” says Maverick.

Also see: The worst Valentine's Day gift ever

Some other common themes included not understanding why men need time with their guys, tardiness, Debbie Downers and frequent complaining, and materialistic women.

You also had some positive things to say about your experience in relationships.

“I recently got married over the holidays and I love my wife tremendously. Everyone has his or her flaws and one of the things that she does that tends to irritate me is shutting down,” writes Yahoo user David.

You also weren’t shy about saying what you wanted in an ideal partner and that included openness, compassion and independence.

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Special shout-out to Yahoo User Lowlevel, who had one of the most thoughtful comments:

“Lots of these go both ways, but anyways.

1) Excessive device usage. Are you more interested in me or your screen?

2) Lack of confidence. If you were too fat, too ugly, or too dumb... I wouldn't have been interested in the first place. A girl with many extra pounds and huge self-confidence is much more attractive than a 'visual' ten who keeps comparing herself to other (probably photoshopped) women.

3) Lack of self-respect/personal hygiene. Sure you may be fat or skinny because of genes or a little overindulgence or high metabolism... but nobody should be morbidly obese or a waif to the point of health issues. Same with hygiene. Yes, we all have bad hair days or skip showers... but when it becomes chronic because you are too comfortable with your partner or just don't care... yuck.

4) Mind games. This one is mostly for females. Are you upset? Tell me what is wrong.... don't mope around and say 'nothing' or 'I'm fine' because we know your are just fishing for complements or favours. This isn't high school anymore... most adults don't have the time or patience for this #$%$.

5) Demanding things. If you want your feet rubbed or us to buy you flowers/ chocolate/ jewelry... (conversely guys who want a BJ, sex, etc), demanding them is probably the worst thing you can do to get them. It isn't like mind games by using guilt or fear to get them... but treating the other person nice so they will possibly provide them.”