Chapter 4 addresses the question of why some people are more affectionate than others. Research implicating innate influences – including genetic effects, neurological activity, hormone levels, sex and gender, age, and attachment style – is reviewed first, followed by cultural, ethnic, and familial influences. Finally, contextual factors, including the privacy and emotional intensity of a situation, are explored. The chapter concludes with a frank discussion about the interaction of innate and environmental antecedents for affectionate communication.