LOVE LANGUAGES: WORDS OF AFFIRMATION

 

The concept of "love languages" has become part of pop culture and the terms are used frequently in regard to the way that individuals feel loved and cared for in relationships.  The concept that we all give and receive love differently has been known by the mental health community for a very long time. The specific terminology of "love languages" originated in the book: 

The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate is a 1992 book by Gary Chapman

Beginning with "words of affirmation," the concept is that for some individuals in a relationship,words are vital and powerful. The simplest phrase that would fall under this concept is saying "I love you." While we all say those words at times, for some individuals words like this are the strongest feeling of love, warmth, and stability. Other common words of affirmation include:

1. You are the one for me.

2. I can't imagine my life without you.

3. You are beautiful in my eyes.

4. You make me happy.

5. You are my one and only true love.

Of course this is not an exhaustive list. Rather this is a way of explaining that for some, words are the most powerful way to convey love and emotion. The key to love languages is that there is not wrong or right. Rather, if we know and understand the languages, we can understand how we give and receive love even if it differs from our partner or partners.