Couple affection exchange profiles and marital quality in Chinese couples

Abstract Affection plays a crucial role in romantic relationships, as individuals exchange affection with each other to build and maintain relationships. This study applied affection exchange theory (AET) to examine affection exchange patterns within marital dyads, employing couple‐centered approaches. The aim was to identify different types of couple affection exchange profiles based on both partners' affection given and received. The sample consisted of 668 Chinese heterosexual couples. Additionally, this study explored the association between couple affection exchange profiles and marital quality. Through latent profile analysis, three distinct profiles were identified: reserved (47.1%), invisible (10.5%), and highly affectionate (42.4%). Further between‐profile comparisons regarding marital quality indicated that couples in the highly affectionate profile report the most satisfying marriages, whereas the invisible profile represents the least desirable outcome. The findings highlight the diverse nature of couple affection exchange and offer valuable insights for couple therapy interventions focused on affection.