The phrase "affection level" refers to how much love and warmth someone or something shows or receives. It indicates the degree of fondness and closeness in a relationship or bond. Full definition
Breed isn't the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily. (dogtime.com)
If you have a good affection level, they will be able to offer help and can join you in battle. (gearnuke.com)
This wouldn't be a big deal if the options were more consistent or if they didn't effect character affection levels, and thus recruitment potential, but since they do it was nothing more than an annoyance. (thevitalounge.net)