courage to the sticking point

(This is in relation to people we share love-hate relationships with).

It is so much easier to express anger and annoyance than affection. I reckon this has to do with the balance of power. When one is angry with another, it implies superiority. The Other did something wrong, or wronged you in some way, and expressing anger - explicitly or passive-aggressively - is a way of claiming reparations, placing you in the position of power.

Affection, on the other hand, is a tricky emotion to micromanage. Maybe because it might strike at the most unexpected time, leaving you reeling and wondering why it suddenly surfaced despite The Other being a total jerk, or maybe it leaves you wondering what to do next i.e. does that affection need to be translated into short- or long-term action. And because of the various permutations or possible consequences of affection, it is a confusing feeling. Confusion = lack of control = vulnerability. It leaves you open to the various demands The Other might make, demands that you may or may not be able to fulfil to The Other's satisfaction. And then what? (Possible feelings of inadequacy at the limited extent of what you previously perceived as boundless affection, perhaps.)

If you believe that attack is the best defense, then similarly, to be angry (in so doing making The Other atone for the transgression) is a good defense against the uncertainties of affection.