If you're slightly nervous about telling your dad you love him on Father's Day, you're not alone.
A recent survey by Wilkinson Sword revealed that 43% of us think we should say those three words more often, while almost a quarter admitted to never saying 'I love you' at all.
But why have our relationships with our fathers' stalled?
Surely in this emotionally literate age, it should be the parents who are scared of expressing their emotions, not their younger, more self-aware children?
Psychologist Anjula Mutanda explains: "There is a lot of love for dads, however, these results identify how awkward and uncomfortable Brits can feel when it comes to actually directly telling their dads that they love them.
"Young children generally tend to express love and affection towards their parents more freely but, from the pre-teens onwards, the hugs and the 'I love yous' between parent and child can diminish.
"As time goes by, we can then fall out of the habit of saying 'I love you'. The longer this goes on, the more avoidant we can become."
But the good news, says Anjula, is the more we say 'I love you', the easier and more natural it becomes to express it.
"We not only ditch the awkwardness, but also get to show dads real appreciation, which makes them feel good."
Just google the phrase 'How can I show my father I love him?' and you'll soon find out how widespread this problem appears to be.
You'll also discover that there are many men with children who are struggling to express their own feelings of paternal affection.
In a beautifully insightful HuffPost blog, Roland C Warren points out four key lessons that any dad should learn.
:: "Does my child know that he matters to me?"
:: "Does my child know that I love him?"
:: "Does my child know that what he does is important to me?"
:: "Does my child know how proud I am of him?"
Warren suggests that a dad (particularly in the case of father-son relationships) must habitually reaffirm these points, if he wants to create a long-lasting bond.
So if you're struggling with emotional intimacy, it could be time for both you and your dad to put some work in.
Here is a selection of simple tips to help strengthen your relationship -- and perhaps put you and your father in a safe space to say those three special words.
7 Ways To Tell Your Dad You Love Him
Cook Him A Meal(01 of07)
Open Image ModalOver the years, he'll have served up roast dinners, made infinite amounts of sandwiches and cut up loads of apples for your lunchbox.So perhaps it's time to turn the tables?Everyone loves to be cooked for and it's a terrifically simple way to show you care... without having to say those three scary words. (credit:SSC via Getty Images)
Listen To Him(02 of07)
Open Image ModalWhen was the last time you gave your dad, your undivided attention? Seriously, the simplest way to demonstrate how much someone means to you is to spend time with them. You might think that you've heard your old dad's stories a million times, but he might well surprise you. And you'll create some memories that will last a lifetime, which you can both treasure. (credit:Eric Herchaft via Getty Images)
Ask Him For Advice(03 of07)
Open Image ModalRemember that your dad has a lifetime of experience. Let him know that you value his guidance by asking him for his advice on solving a problem, or making an important decision. (credit:Frank Gaglione via Getty Images)
Ask His Help With Practical Problems(04 of07)
Open Image ModalYou might be entirely capable of rewiring your own flat, but there's nothing a dad likes more than proving his worth with power tools.Next time a shelf goes wonky, try giving him a call and asking his advice. Or letting him help you fix it. It'll give you both some invaluable family time. (credit:Paul Bradbury via Getty Images)
Give Him A Hug(05 of07)
Open Image ModalIf you're having trouble expressing your feelings verbally, then perhaps try a little physical communication. Give your dad a hug next time you see him. And make sure it's a big one. (credit:Jose Luis Pelaez via Getty Images)
Share His Interests(06 of07)
Open Image ModalConsider spending time with him on his terms. If your dad's idea of bliss is an afternoon spent with Constable, then check out new art exhibitions and suggest days and times you could see them together. Not only will he be happy to know you want to spend time with him, he will have the opportunity to show off his passion, which will bring you two closer. (credit:Omar Dakhane via Getty Images)
Stay Connected(07 of07)
Open Image ModalEven if you are finding it difficult to find time to spend with your dad, then don't forget that small gestures speak volumes.An email or text updating him on your news will always be happily received. Especially if it ends with a couple of xx's. (credit:Sam Edwards via Getty Images)