Affectionate communication consent: Professional cuddlers coordinate platonic touch

Abstract

This study investigates how professional cuddlers develop consensual affectionate exchanges, emphasizing the role of consent in platonic interactions, and how they navigate the violation of consent or expectations. Participants (N = 15) included cuddle practitioners represented from several countries and ranging from 10 months to 10 years of experience. We applied a phronetic-iterative approach to derive themes surrounding (non)reciprocity and relational boundary violations. The process of managing (non)reciprocity unfolds through three key themes: setting expectations, inquiring, and deconstructing “no.” These themes situate the interpersonal communication exchange necessary to establish reciprocity between the practitioner and client to establish the appropriateness of their interaction and relationship. Affection exchange comes with risk. As a result, violations delineated progress from innocuous to severe. Four themes delineate the breach of relational boundaries: disquietude, overstimulation, transference, and severe breaches. This study highlights an emergent industry working to service the absence of interpersonal affection. The implications offer fertile ground for examining affection and consent, while also enhancing Affection Exchange Theory’s understanding of nonreciprocity and misinterpretation in platonic interactions.

Keywords

Affection affection exchange theory consent cuddling professional cuddling

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