When we first got married my ex was very affectionate it was never the right time or place. He was constantly making a fool of himself and embarrassing me in public. I hated it. So I sat him down one night and told him that I loved it when he would hug and kiss me and hold my hand but that I was very uncomfortable when he was all over me in public.

He would only do or show any affection in public - like in front of my family or friends. Never when we were alone.

I'm a very affectionate person but there is a time and place for everything and for my ex it was only when others were looking.

I don't miss any affection he showed me as it was fake. But I miss affection from my ex fianc! I never doubted his affection ever.

:( sigh

I crave affection like there is no tomorrow. My stbx wouldnt even sit next to me on the couch. I think he just had no clue how to bond. He was treated pretty bad as a kid and has the COLDEST mom ever. Something inside of them makes it hard to touch.

He was very affectionate when he was courting me. I am extremely affectionate and he would complain to me about it. I stopped. He complained that I stopped.....

I told him that he wilted me and that even plants need water to keep them alive.

yes

I am very affectionate as well. I love to be loved. We were affectionate most of the time. We would hold hands, kiss every chance we got, be playful about it. Granted there were days when we wouldn't get along but for the most part we were good. My whole family is very affectionate but I have many friends that aren't. I think it depends on the environment on how people grow up. If they don't receive affection they are most likely not to give it.

"Nature vs Nurture" I so agree. Mine's mommy let him know constantly that as a 'change of life" baby what an unwanted/unplanned burden he was. He sought her affection/approval until the day she died, and I never saw her hug anyone. He never showed it and it was hard for him to say it. I tried to make up for his emotionally detached family but never quite accomplished it. He was almost suspicious that he was worthy of love.