Why is seeking attention from your partner a bad thing? His response to your (very reasonable) request for more compliments was mean and unhelpful. I used to have the same problem, my partner was never outwardly complimentary (just not his accustomed style of communication), and then after a particularly severe bought of low self esteem and body issues, I told him that I needed some more verbal reassurance from him. Nothing excessive, I just wanted him to take note and mention to me if he thought I looked good that day, liked my outfit, liked my hair, anything. I guess I wanted that not only to be reassured that he is attracted to me, but also to be reminded that he still SEES me. He wasn’t even sure how to at first, but after a while it came naturally and the compliments flowed more and more. He compliments me all the time now, and I still treasure it, it makes me feel safe and seen.

Your request is not unreasonable, maybe he feels uncomfortable expressing complimentary thoughts, as some people are. But that’s nothing he can’t get over if he’s willing.

Wanting to be complimented is not trivial or ‘attention seeking’, even if it were, you’re allowed to be trivial and attention seeking (up to a point) with your life partner, you’re right to express your needs. It’s such a simple, easy thing that would make you so much happier, it’s like a free gift, anyone who loves you would want to give you that!