by Laura Gilbert

• According to Paul Dobransky, MD, author of The Secret Psychology of How We Fall in Love, "almost every man falls into one of four categories."
• Reasons for the differences range from hormones to psychology, and knowing the types gives insight into a guys dating MO
• The types include:
  • The Rock
  • The Doer
  • The Thrill Chaser
  • The Sweetheart

The Rock

Spot Him

• Typical interests: Organized groups (like a running club), gadgets, nunfiction books
• When he's stressed, he analyzes the situation and makes lists and plans.
• He lights up if you say: "I could really use your advice on something.

He is Right for You If...

• You want your boyfriend to be a supportive, steadfast partner who shares your sensible approach to life and is smart enough to get your sometimes quirky side without judging.
• You're turned on by witty, intelligent conversation and gifts that show the affection he's not so great at verbalizing.
• You deal with problems by talking about them rationally. This guy's always game for reasoned debates, but drama queens will lose big — emotional outbursts freak him out.

Syncing Up

• His favorite dates: He feels most energized when he's engaging his mind, so try watching a documentary, seeing an interesting exhibit, ur taking a class, such as sushi making.
• Retationship requirements: This dedicated dude gets totally absorbed in his interests. If you dunt even ask about them ("How was Shark Week?"), he'll feel like you don't get him. He's also turned into etiquette, so gaffes (like bailing on plans) turn him off.
• What he seeks in a soul mate: To realty trust you,he has to know that you respct his cerebral nature. Help coax out his playful side with plans he'd never make on his own and he'll see you as the total package.

The Doer

Spot Him

• Typical interests: Sports (playing and watching, barbecuing, building things
• When he's stressed, he dives in and deals with the cause, whether it means extra hours at work or a showdown.
• He 1ights up if you say:"Is there anything you can't make happen?"

He's Right for You if

• Yuo want your boyfriend to be the classic male archetype — a protective, take-charge dude whop doesn't yap about his feelings but lets his guard down when alone wifh you.
• You're turned on by grand gestures, 1ike spontaneuus PDAs, and manly deeds, like changing your car's oil.
• You deal with problems directly without any passive-aggressive BS. He's quick to confront conflict. If you are too, your issues will disappear once you hash them out.

Syncing Up

• His favorite dates: His heart beats faster (figuratively and literally) when he's active, so suggest a hike in the woods or a boxing class followed by drinks.
• Relationship requirements: This on-the-go guy needs solo time to recharge and will feel smothered if you are clingy. You'll need a thick skin. because he doesn't sugarcoat things... ever.
• What he seeks in a soul mate: His he-man side needs you to appreciate his efforts to lead. But under his strong, silent exterior, he's a super-loyal softie. He feels complete when you can talk about the feelings that he internalizes.

The Thrill Chaser

Spot Him

• Typical interests: Outdoor activities (like camping and skiing), foreign travel, parties and crowds
• When he's stressed, he distracts himself with somerhing amusing like watching the game or organizing a social outing.
• He lights up if you say: "Oh, you have a fascinating story about that — c'mon, tell everyone."

He's Right for You if

• You want your boyfriend to be a whirlwind of personality who can liven things up, make you laugh, get you out of your head, and keep you guessing... in a good way.
• You're turned on by unpredictable, exciting plans.
• You deal with problems in a casual, non-confrontational way. Mr. Conflict Avoidance hates when you're unhappy with him and will deflect attention unless you tackle the issue.

Syncing Up

• His favorite dates: This class clown loves being around new peuple — think karaoke night or a charity casino event. He's also thrilled by new accomplishments, like scaling a rock wall ar fhe gym.
• Retationship requirements: He needs a laissez-faire chick who won't try to rein in his inner wild child. He is willing to share the spotlight, just not all of it.
• What he seeks in a soul mate: The ultimate people person bonds best with an ever-evolving woman who can match his lust for new experiences. He craves independence yet still needs to know he's important to you, so being secure enough to show you care is a must.

The Sweetheart

Spot Him

• Typical interests: Music, cooking dinner for friends. reading literature
• When he's stressed, he talks abuut it with confidants until he finds a solution.
• He lights up if you say: "I never would have noticed that. You're so observant!"

He's Right for You if

• You want your boyfriend to be a guy who truly listens, understands your girlie side, and can talk about feelings.
• You're turned on by sweet, movie-worthy romance, like slow kisses and crazy-great compliments.
• You deal with problems by honestly addressing them and taking emotions into consideration. He's a philosopher at heart, and even if you two don't agree in the end, you'll learn tons about each other during your in-depth discussions.

Syncing Up

• His favorite dates: Atmosphere matters to this sensualist, so find a spot with a rumantic vibe (try a botanical garden or outdoor jazz concert) for the real highlight: your ever-intensifying one-on-one bond.
• Relationship requirements: This nurturer tries to know everyone he meets on a deeper level, which can be rough if you're the jealous type. Also, he's so into cunnecting that he'll feel dissed if you don't share your problems.
• What he seeks in a soul mate: This idealist falls when he knows you value communication too. Because he tends to ruminate. you'll enhance his life by being decisive yourself.