It's generally used as a starting point for discussing relationship needs. I put this under the flawed but useful category. Although it's really just another way to label yourself to others.

I don't see it as harmful but I'm sure we'll see more about it in the future as it has grown in popularity. Every woman in their 20s/30s I talk to has at one time mentioned it to me which was not the case until about 2 years ago.

I'm sure different cultures will have different ways of expressing affection thus leading to a different set of "Love Languages".