Written by: Libby Thoma | Staff Writer

Love languages are the basis for understanding another person’s needs, whether in a romantic, platonic or familial relationship. Love languages are people’s preferred ways of receiving and giving love. 

There are five types of love languages: physical touch, acts of service, gift-giving, quality time and words of affirmation. Although it is commonly thought that people only need one, most need all of these languages fulfilled and have one that they need more than the others. 

The first of these languages is physical touch. Although it is commonly misconstrued that this love language is focused on sex, the reality includes hugging, kissing, holding hands or even high fives — anything involving enjoying the physical company of others.

The second is acts of service, which includes giving up one’s time to do something that needs to be done or something their partner would like. 

The third language is gift-giving. Many consider this love language greedy, but this isn’t always the case.

Those with the gift-giving love language generally don’t want expensive, hard-to-get gifts — just something to show they are being thought of. An example of this could be a letter, a rock, food or just about anything depending on the person.

Quality time is another love language, which most people share a need for. This includes spending time with someone and being present and involved. 

Finally, words of affirmation include statements to show love and admiration to the partner with this love language. 

Love languages are important to understand, both for yourself and your partner. Knowing these needs is necessary to ensure a happy and fulfilling relationship. It is also crucial for a person to know their love language to communicate this to their partner.

A fulfilling relationship may include considering each other’s love languages and being conscious that a partner will have individual preferences. It may be wise to fulfill each other’s needs, so for this Valentine’s Day, ask a partner, date or even friends and family what their love languages are, so they may have the opportunity to feel loved and seen in their relationships. 

Contact the author at ethoma23@mail.wou.edu