Affection Exchange Theory: A Bio-Evolutionary Look at Affectionate Communication

Few interpersonal behaviors are more consequential to the formation, development, maintenance, and satisfaction level of close relationships than the communication of affection. Although various communication theories have explained elements of affection exchange-such as how affectionate messages are encoded or when people are likely to reciprocate them-Floyd’s affection exchange theory offers a broader explanatory mechanism for understanding affectionate behavior and identifying its effects on individuals and relationships. Unlike many theories of interpersonal communication, affection exchange theory takes an explicitly bio-evolutionary perspective on human social behavior. Written by Kory Floyd, Colin Hesse, and Mark Generous, this chapter-Affection Exchange Theory: A Bio-Evolutionary Look at Affectionate Communication-introduces affection exchange theory, identifies its assumptions and postulates, surveys empirical support for its primary claims, and evaluates its strengths and limitations.