We can all agree couples that baby-talk or use lovey-dovey language can get pretty annoying. But why do couples do this-- and does it have any benefit?

Surprisingly, yes. Happy couples often develop an "insider language" that they communicate with. It can be a combination of inside jokes, silly nicknames, and code phrases. This language that is private and only shared between the couple can help them feel more bonded, and it is also a way to express playfulness.

"Using nicknames and made-up language is an easy way to inject positive communication into everyday life," says Jamie Turndorf, Ph.D., relationship therapist.

However, an overuse of "baby-talking"-- talking to your partner as if they were an infant-- is annoying to outsiders, can be seen as condescending, and some believe it is a way for couples to avoid mature discussions.

So what good do these "secret languages" and cutesy nicknames do? Several things:

• A cutesy nickname is a way of expressing affection and intimacy
  
• Baby-talking may help release bonding chemicals oxytocin and dopamine
  
• Babytalking may be a way to show off to the other person that you are emotionally healthy and have good parenting instincts
  
• Creating a "secret code" language that only the two of you know is like developing your own private culture; it shows the two of you are closly bonded
  
• Secret codes can help you communicate faster or share private feelings in public. For example, saying "Find anything?" when shopping instead of "Let's leave!"
  
• Cutesy conversations are a way of letting others know you're commited. If people overhear your nicknames they know you're a close couple. It's a way to express to others that you're taken.
  
• Code language can help save a relationship. Professor Lorne Cambpell, Ph.D researched humor during conflicts. He found that using humor during a dispute strengthens a relationship. Bringing up inside jokes during a fight helps to relieve tension.
  
• The harmful nickname
  Not all inside jokes and cute couple names are good, however. Giving a nickname that your partner hates can be bad to a relationship, because instead of promoting bonding, it acts to annoy them
  
• The Most Important Phrase to Say
  What if you don't care much for the babytalking and cutesy-schmootsy names? That doesn't mean your relationship will fail. It is far more important to say "I love you" to your partner. Relationships where that phrase is hardly ever said tend to have weaker bonds and more problems.

  Related Pages:
  Cute & Sexy Nickname Generator
  101 Ways To Flirt
  Signs Of Love
  Signs Of Infatuation
  Stages Of Love

  External Links:
  Jena Pincott - why do couples babytalk?
  MSNBC - Cutesy nicknames strengthen a couple's bonds
  Perspective: It's a baby-talk pandemic