To lull you into thinking all is well, abusers often pepper what they do and say with kindnesses (flowers, an unexpected kiss, saying he missed you). Teasing is not an appropriate way for someone to express affection no matter how much you like the other things he does and says.

Today it’s teasing. Tomorrow it may be blaming you for something he did. In due time things could come to blows. Even if they don’t, that you feel more and more hurt by what he says is a sure sign that he’s getting meaner and meaner.

If any significant person in your life (parent, sibling) did this also, it may be that you regard this kind of behavior as normal, but it isn’t. Even if you're used to it, it still doesn't make it right. It only means you’re used to being insulted – no matter how lightheartedly. It also means it’s time to get away from people like that, find out how a person is supposed to be treated, and raise your expectations of those who say they love you.

No one taught your boyfriend how to communicate his affection appropriately, and teaching him is not your job. While you might be inclined to tell him what you want and give it a few weeks to see if he improves, it's more likely he can put on a good front for a few weeks and then resume his behavior all over again. He may even kick it up a notch (being late for something important or insisting you spend more time with him instead of your friends). These kinds of behaviors do not get better. They only worsen over time.

There is no such thing as the perfect mate, but there are those who will treat you in a way that doesn't upset you and who will treat you the same whether you're around others or not. You don't necessarily need a new boyfriend, but you should at least get rid of this one.