HOW SINGLE WOMEN RESPOND TO THE QUESTION
“DO YOU NEED A MAN?”
“No, I don’t need a man. But I would like a man in my life.”
“No, I don’t need a man. But I want a man in my life.”
“No, I don’t need a man. I can take care of myself. I just want
to be with a man because I choose to, not because I need
him.”
“No, I don’t need a man. I don’t need another father.”
“No, I am not desperate. I just want to have a loving relation-
ship.”
“No, I have been there and done that. I just want a partner
to share with.”
“No, what do I need a man for? I can completely support
myself. I just want a companion.”
“No, I don’t need a man. I just want romance and intimacy.”
“No, I am happy now. I just want someone to go to wed-
dings, parties, and the movies with.”
“No, not really. I just don’t want to be lonely anymore.”Although these responses seem very reasonable and positive,
they reflect an attitude that clearly doesn’t attract men, or at
least doesn’t attract men who will become motivated to make
a commitment. These women are surprised to hear
306 / JOHN GRAY, PH.D.