Serious question, respectfully asked: Why don't you see the disservice that you are doing to your son...a young innocent who undoubtedly thinks the sun rises and sets on you? You, who is his everything? Do you think in his little world that hearing an affirming 3 words would edify him?
(I think this is what is wrong with a lot of men today: the validation not provided in his childhood...)
Not trying to offend you, OP. This hits close for me as my Mom & Dad were very tough but provided all my needs, wants, then some...and expected my young self to translate that into love. Kids don't process like that. As an adult and looking back in hindsight; I know they did their best because they love me (but I think this is why I don't have kids today...). We are our patterns and that inner child is always reliving events - good & bad.
I know I went emo but like I said kids need all the love, in EVERY FORM, that they deserve.