Before you make an emotional investment in a partner, our list of 21 traits to be mindful of includes some qualities that should line up closely and others that can be different or complementary. It’s up to you to determine which values and behaviors will ultimately bother you if they’re not aligned. Such is often the case with affection.
If one of you is affectionate and the other is not, odds are low the relationship will stand the test of time. In love language terms, if one person’s primary is physical and the other person is not inclined that way, they’ll likely lead a life of frustration that could lead to indiscretion. Better not to invest in that relationship in the first place.
Intimacy, however a couple defines it, is the ultimate form of affection and generally must line up 100%. An exception is when one person doesn’t mind being touched but doesn’t reciprocate physically or with the same degree of warmth or frequency, yet both are ok with it. It’s a variation that the couple defines; whatever works for them is their business.
For most affectionate people, there’s no substitute for occasional to frequent casual touching, never mind getting twisted up in the sheets. And if words or deeds are how you express affection, that’s perfectly fine; here again, it’s how the couple defines it.
If we take affection to mean demonstrative touching, however subtle or obvious, it’s a trait that typically both people seek and offer.
Without overthinking, rate where you’d place yourself on the scale below as to how much affection you need in a relationship. Then consider where your partner falls. 
Affection is one of the 21 traits that should be in alignment. Too far apart and you may have a problem. On or close and the odds of an LTR are in your favor.
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