In a generation that's very caught up on hook-up culture, it's refreshing to see couples out in public enjoying one another's company; however, where there are couples in public, PDA is sure to follow.
But what is PDA?
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PDA is short for public displays of affection. The name is self-explanatory, but formally, it's defined as acts of physical intimacy in view of others.
Some couples display small and sweet amounts of PDA that live up to all of our rom-com fantasies; others border the intense and make others very, very uncomfortable.
There's two sides and a thin line in between, but when does a couple cross that line?
I asked 20+ people where they drew their line, and here's what they said.
1. Check your surroundings.
"It depends on your surroundings. You could make out at a party but not on the steps of church. Small gestures are totally fine and actually cute. Taking it to the max is when I cringe." -Jordan, 20
2. Golden Rule
"If you don't like it when other people do it, then don't do it." -Madi, 19
3. Less is More.
"Personally, I love PDA... kisses, hand holding, and hugs only though. More intimate acts should be saved for a more private space." -Raegan, 18
4. Private meets public.
"There's a certain line where private and public meet. Kissing and such is okay, but anything past is too much." -Spencer, 18
5. Think about the parentals.
"If it isn't something you would feel uncomfortable doing in front of your parents, then you shouldn't do it in public." -Madison, 21
6. No saliva, please.
"Holding hands and a small peck goodbye are okay, but when you can see saliva oozing out of the mouths of two people going at it, that's where I draw my line." -Jenny, 19
7. Mouth babies are a no.
"If you're making babies with your mouth, you need to get a room."- Jackie, 19
8. Keep it special.
"Moments like that are meant to stay private; that's what makes them special, and I don't want to share those moments with lots of people." -Maggie, 22
9. There's NEVER a good time for swallowing face.
"A quick kiss, holding hands, a hug is totally fine for PDA, but anything else is too much. I hate walking to class and seeing people swallowing each other's faces at 7:30 am." -Shelby, 19
10. Hands to yourself.
"Making out in public and hands under clothes is not okay for public viewing, but it really just depends on how you present yourself." -Dakota, 18
11. Occasional and not too hard.
"Holding hands and the occasional kiss is cool, but when you're basically dry humping or kissing so hard that there's a lot of noise, it's too much." -Ethan, 23
12. Sexual touching is a no go.
"Making out or any sort of touching that would be considered sexual is too far, but a peck, a hug, or holding hands would be fine." -Joe, 18
13. Stay mindful.
"Being comfortable with someone enough to give a simple kiss, hug, or holding their hand is completely acceptable, but you have to be thoughtful of other people and understand that everyone reacts to PDA differently. Save what should be between a couple between a couple." Madison, 21
14. Keep it modest.
Hugging and kissing but not sucking face. Holding hands is good, too." -Keith, 44
15. Kid appropriate.
"If you wouldn't do it in front of your (future) kids, then maybe it's not a good idea." -Savannah, 19
16. Side hugs ONLY
"Side hugs are my limit." -Melanie, 39
17. Respect thy neighbor.
I was raised believing there is an appropriate time for everything. PDA should be kept respectful." William, 57
18. Grandparent certified.
"If you wouldn't do it in front of your grandparents, you shouldn't be doing it in public." -Kendyl, 20
19. High five, man!
"A high five and a fist bump is sufficient, but only if you're married." -John, 57
Keep it simple.
Most people all agree that hugging, a quick kiss, and holding hands are acceptable forms of PDA. From ages 19-63, most views are the same. Simplicity is key.
So. Keep it sweet. Keep it simple.
Most importantly, keep it PG-13.
