A recent study published in the Journal of Sex Research found that women in romantic relationships who receive more affectionate touch report better body satisfaction and relationship quality. The study suggested that affectionate touch enhances both relationship satisfaction and self-perception in women.
Body image encompasses an individual’s perceptions and feelings about their physical appearance, including size, shape, and attractiveness. Body satisfaction occurs when a person feels positive about their appearance, which is linked to high self-esteem and well-being. On other hand, body dissatisfaction leads to negative emotions, low self-esteem, and potentially harmful behaviors.
The study, led by Jessica Campbell, included 1,156 women in committed romantic relationships, ages 18 to 72. Most were married and had at least one child, and 83% were heterosexual. Participants reported their frequency of affectionate touch, body satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction.
Affectionate touch, such as hugging, holding hands, and kissing, has been linked to positive mental health outcomes. The researchers hypothesized that women who receive affectionate touch more frequently would be more satisfied with their relationships, sexual satisfaction, and body image.
Results showed that women who engaged in more affectionate touch were more satisfied with their bodies, relationships, and sexual satisfaction. The study found that the frequency of affectionate touch influences relationship satisfaction partly by improving body satisfaction.
The study concluded that frequent affectionate touch is associated with better body satisfaction, which in turn enhanced relationship and sexual satisfaction.
There you have it gentlemen, hold and touch her as Rihanna said, “want you to make me feel like I’m the only girl in the world.” It’ll payoff for you too.
JT Campbell et al. Women who experience more affectionate touch report better body satisfaction and relationship outcomes. Journal of Sex Research (2024). https://doi.org/10.1080/00224499.2024.2310705
