Speaking the Language of Love: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Love is a psychological need that necessitates reciprocation from the receiving end. This implies that love requires a language for communication. Chapman talks about five primary languages of love namely, words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, receiving gifts, and acts of service. One of the commonly cited reasons for the breakdown of intimate relationships is a deficit in expressing and experiencing love. In the present study, a qualitative approach has been adopted to conduct personal interviews with 30 married persons in order to understand the love dynamics in operation within the context of their married lives. The data collected was analysed to elicit themes that are reflective of the operationalization of love languages. Implications of the research direct counsellors, therapists, and psychologists to psychoeducation of couples on the construct of love languages and provide tailor-made interventions for conflict-filled marriages.