affiliative

adjective

af·​fil·​i·​a·​tive ə-ˈfi-lē-ˌā-tiv 

: relating to the formation of social and emotional bonds with others or to the desire to create such bonds

It is interesting and significant that most cult members join because of affiliative needs to be with others.

—Scott Smith, The Capital (Maryland), 24 Apr. 2008

They have found oxytocin, a hormone associated with affiliative impulses, which may help initiate the onset of a loving bond between mother and infant.

—Natalie Angier, New York Times, 24 May 1994

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

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