This article was co-authored by Sarah Schewitz, PsyD and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau. Sarah Schewitz, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist by the California Board of Psychology with over 10 years of experience. She received her Psy.D. from the Florida Institute of Technology in 2011. She is the founder of Couples Learn, an online psychology practice helping couples and individuals improve and change their patterns in love and relationships.
There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
This article has been viewed 299,493 times.
Affection is essential to any good relationship—so how can you show more affection if it doesn't come naturally to you? Not to worry: there are many ways to show someone how much you care! Affection is any behavior that conveys warm feelings, love, or appreciation—and everyone has a deep need for it, whether they show it or not. Keep reading, and you'll learn how to practice more affectionate behavior consistently to bring joy to yourself and everyone around you.
Things You Should Know
- Touch your romantic partner often. Kissing, cuddling, hugging, and hand holding are great ways to show romantic affection.
- Give small, thoughtful gifts to show your appreciation and send a sweet text or reassuring message when they’re having a hard time.
- Set aside quality time to connect with your partner. Try date nights, making dinner together, or watching a movie you both love.
Steps
Expert Q&A
-
QuestionWhat's the best kind of affection to give someone who's sad?Sarah Schewitz, PsyDSarah Schewitz, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist by the California Board of Psychology with over 10 years of experience. She received her Psy.D. from the Florida Institute of Technology in 2011. She is the founder of Couples Learn, an online psychology practice helping couples and individuals improve and change their patterns in love and relationships.
Licensed PsychologistIt's important for you to ask the person what they prefer as far as the type of affection they want to be shown. However, a hug, a pat on the back, or holding hands can all be nice.
Video
Tips
References
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/relationship-help.htm
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/relationship-help.htm
- ↑ https://www.uagc.edu/blog/the-psychology-behind-the-5-love-languages
- ↑ https://www.familycentre.org/news/post/5-different-ways-to-show-love-and-improve-your-relationship
- ↑ https://hbr.org/2010/12/the-real-point-of-gift-giving
- ↑ https://www.uagc.edu/blog/the-psychology-behind-the-5-love-languages
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/life-refracted/201704/creating-surprises-powerful-way-show-love
- ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/acts-of-kindness-and-compassion
- ↑ https://adaa.org/finding-help/helping-others/spouse-or-partner
- ↑ https://www.scienceofpeople.com/asking-advice/
- ↑ https://www.joinonelove.org/learn/19-ways-show-s-o-love-without-saying-word/
- ↑ https://www.familycentre.org/news/post/5-different-ways-to-show-love-and-improve-your-relationship
- ↑ https://hbr.org/2018/05/the-surprising-power-of-questions
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-fitness/201712/10-ways-show-your-partner-youre-in-love
About This Article
To show affection to someone who needs it, offer them a hug if you think they’d be comfortable with it, since physical contact often makes people feel better. If it’s your partner, you can also kiss them, cuddle, or hold their hand to show your support. Another great way to show affection is to buy someone a small gift, like chocolates, flowers, or a bottle of wine. You can also invite them to spend time with you, to watch a movie, go for walk, or have a quiet coffee together, which shows them that you value their company. If they’re a busy person, offer to do something for them, like cook them a meal, pick up their kids, or run an errand for them, which should ease some of their stress. For more tips from our co-author, including how to tell someone you care about them, read on!
Reader Success Stories
-
"Learning the love language and how we both can be different in our needs really helped shine light on how to give affection."..." more