Hi Pas . I too grew up with out hugs and affection. I have always loved hugs and craved them at times yet my sister hates hugging. I have single friends who are single they get touch starved because there is no one in their life to hold them. I try to make sure they get a big hug when I see them. Others I have to ask. Myself I just recently after all these years have a bf who can tell if I am down and will pull me over and sit me on his lap for a cuddle. I quess better late than never. Interesting that sometimes I get a bit of resistance and want to pull away but if I can just relax for an minute then I'm all snuggles. My two dogs love to snuggle with me and that really helps. ((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))))