Abstract
Affection Exchange Theory (AET) is a framework for understanding how affection functions in interpersonal relationships. Although AET has contributed to explanations of relational and health outcomes, the theory lacks a robust interactional account of affection. This study developed an interaction‐specific scale of affection exchange to explore how frameworks of emotion, behavioral motivation, and relational message processing can enhance AET’s explanatory power. Participants (N = 473) reported on a recalled interaction with a close other. Results indicated that affectionate interaction was positively associated with positive affective response, behavioral activation system sensitivity, and affiliation–disaffiliation message processing. Generating implications across its incorporated frameworks, this study builds a foundation for future exploration of the emergence of affection exchange dynamics in interpersonal interaction.