His Man-Tanties

Does he dodge every argument? Throw a tanty (tantrum) when you try to discuss something? To you it's immaturity; to him, it's a clever way to make sure he wins every time. Here's how to get the upper hand.

TANTY TACTIC #1
The walk-out
He does this to avoid hearing your side of the argument. If it didn't look so silly, men would simply cover their ears and sing very loudly. Their alternative? Making a run for it while you're making your point. The walk-out may have the benefit of looking dramatic, but all it means is he knows he's lost the argument.
Anti-Tanty Move: Do not follow him. Go out and return hours after he has. That'll teach him…

TANTY TACTIC #2
The silent treatment
When they think there's a monster in the room, little boys hide under the duvet and pretend it isn't there. When there is a monster in the room [you], big boys close their mouths, avoid eye contact and go about their business as if you don't exist. It infuriates you, because carrying on with the argument seems pointless. And it panics you, because you don't know what he's thinking. Which, truth be told, is not a lot. And despite the cool exterior, inside he's a mess. 'You're sitting there, all stubborn, trying to look relaxed, and actually you feel terrible,' confesses Jason, 25. He really wants to make up. But, naturally, he wants you to make up first.
Anti-Tanty Move: You can be the grown-up and give him a hug – he'll melt pretty quickly. And if he doesn't, at least you get to watch Smallville in peace.

TANTY TACTIC #3
The throw-back
'It helps to have a good memory with this one,' says Robert, 29. 'It makes for fresh ammunition.' The skill is simple: he'll refer to a disagreement you thought was long forgotten. Naturally, this will have nothing to do with your current discussion. If he tries this one on, save your breath. He just wants a fight. About anything.
Anti-Tanty Move: Feeling kind? You can try to get to the bottom of his angst. Or tell him you have better things to do and then, in full view, do something really very unimportant.

TANTY TACTIC #4
The electric fit
For most men, the last resort is to do away with making any case at all and let the raw emotion pour out. We're talking finger-pointing, arm-waving, head-tossing fury. He knows it's unlikely to get him anywhere, but, hey, it looks impressive. 'Really, letting rip is like an extreme sport: exhilarating but stupid‚' says Nick, 31.
Anti-Tanty Move: Join in if you have the energy. Better still, play him at his own game and respond with Tanty Tactic #2. Nobody feels more idiotic screaming at someone who's just not listening to them. As you probably already know…

Author: Josh Sims