How to Know if a Guy Likes You in the Early Dating Stage

The two of you have just started dating and, even though you've had several stellar evenings out, you aren't entirely sure if he likes you. Along with the giddy butterflies that you feel when you're near him, you may also have some cautious stress when you wonder how he feels about you. Knowing what signs to look for can ease the getting-to-know-you process and help you to determine if he's really into you.

If your guy seems like he needs to be near you constantly, it's a sign that he likes you. In the beginning of a romantic relationship, the chemicals in your -- and his -- brain can create a rush of excitement that almost feels like addiction, asserts therapist Debra MacMannis on PsychCentral. While he isn't technically "addicted" to you in the same way that an alcoholic needs a drink, craving your attention shows that he has a definite interest. For example, he may call you constantly just to say "hi" or ask you out on dates daily.

He seems somewhat unstable and his behaviors don't make sense. If your new guy goes from giddy to anxious to gleeful or has other types of erratic behaviors, you're likely seeing signals that he likes you. Even though this type of behavior may seem crazy, it's actually common during the initial stages of attraction, notes MacMannis. That said, if this type of behavior carries on as time goes by, seems more and more strange or makes you uncomfortable, he may have a problem that requires professional help.

Even though the first sparks of electricity between the two of you may feel good, physical attraction isn't the only sign that he likes you during the initial stage of dating. Developing a close bond is essential for a relationship to progress, according to the article "Love and Romance" on TeensHealth. If your guy is making a point to lay the foundation for this bond at the beginning of your relationship, it's a signal that he likes you. He'll show you that he wants to get close by asking you questions about who you are -- deep inside -- and sharing information about himself. For example, he may want to talk about your -- and his -- greatest hopes or what your future life goals include.

Sometimes the signs that a guy likes you aren't so subtle. For example, if he sits you down and wants to have "the talk" about where you two are headed, it's a no-brainer that he likes you. Talking about commitment, or making the promise to stick together, shows that he's into you and wants to take the dating to the next level. That said, if he brings up promises and pledges of commitment on day one, you might want to put the brakes on. Wait until you're nearing the end of the early dating stage -- or until you've gotten to know each other on a deeper level than "What's your favorite TV show?" -- to make a true commitment.