Imagine this scenario: you are sitting in a movie theatre. The lights go dark. The film roars to life. After a few minutes, your partner nudges you gently on the arm. You look over to see what he’s subtly pointing at and are surprised to spot a couple wrapped up in each other’s arms, kissing, right there on the movie theatre seats!
It’s a classic case of PDA. So the question is: are you team yay? Or nay?
What Exactly is PDA?
PDA is short for “public display of affection.” This includes any form of physical touching that happens in public spaces. For example, handholding, kissing, hugging, cuddling, etc. The extent of the touching can be anything from a very tame peck to a full-blown make-out session. In addition, PDA changes drastically depending on which part of the world you are from. In some countries, culture, religion, gender norms (and even the legal system) dictate when and where PDAs can be shown. In many places, women and men can be fined or even arrested for physically interacting in public, even if married. But generally speaking, loving gestures are an everyday occurrence in the Western world.
However, not everybody is on board. So how do we know where our level of PDA falls on the spectrum? Who decides when something is tasteful affection…or inappropriate sexual behavior?
Luckily, this article is here to clear it up!
Research Says Yay?
There’s no doubt about it; PDA has benefits. Those who support showing love in public settings have long touted the positive health outcomes associated with doing so. Interestingly, science seems to back this stance up. For example, researchers have discovered lowered blood pressure and heart rates among those who regularly engage in public displays of affection. Little romantic touches make us feel loved. As human beings, we naturally crave physical attention. It’s in our genes. Being “lovey-dovey” outside the privacy of your own home is a celebration of one another! It can also boost confidence, relieve stress, and lessen anxiety.
What About the Nays?
“Gross.” “Rude.” “Shameless.” “Inappropriate.” These are a few words we hear uttered when people catch canoodling in public. Those who vote nay to PDA often do so for two reasons. Firstly, it makes them feel awkward. Not everybody is comfortable seeing love being expressed so openly. This is especially true if a person was raised in a specific way that frowned upon romantic physical touching in public. In addition, those against PDA sometimes find the behavior distracting. While handholding in a restaurant or sitting close together on the beach isn’t hurting anyone, most couples agree there is a line that shouldn’t be crossed. On the other hand, if the touching is loud enough to draw attention or interrupts the enjoyment of others in public spaces, then maybe it’s more suited to the home.
Some couples are fans of PDA and others aren’t. Being physically affectionate in public isn’t a sign of so-called “true love,” nor is it an indicator that any relationship is more robust or romantic than another. The goal is to find a balance that works for you and your spouse. So, if you want to go in for that quick smooch, forget about the stranger who might shoot you the side-eye. But maybe limit the hardcore PDA to just kissing, handholding or hugs. Save the rest for private!
