PH
Affectionate touch isn't limited to one culture or type of romantic relationship.
Researchers studied 7,880 people across 37 countries and examined behaviors such as hugging, kissing, stroking, and cuddling.
People reporting greater love toward their partners also generally reported more affectionate touch.
The association remained even after researchers considered several other factors.
This doesn't mean couples need to constantly touch to prove they love each other.
But affectionate touch appears to be a remarkably widespread way humans communicate romantic closeness.
© Scientific Reports