Just recently, I have observed that a male senior citizen visitor here at THD has displayed an example of PDA. On my way to Newton's the other day, I saw this gentleman, putting his arm on another lady senior waist/back while they were on their way to lunch. I saw the same gentleman visitor at the Luau the other day mildly stroking/touching with affection the back of the senior Lady. I felt this is an example of a minor display of public affection. Is this Good or Bad?
I am afraid this couple may be a victim of gossips if they continue this behaviour in public specially here at THD. This incident inspired me to do a little reading on PDA. Here's what I learned.
A public display of affection (PDA) is any act of intimacy between a couple that is in view of others. Hugging, kissing, or holding your partner’s hand in public are some examples of PDA. Sharing a private intimate moment in a public forum such as social media can also be a form of PDA.
PDA can be a controversial subject. While some people support it and think it’s romantic, others disapprove of it and find it inappropriate and unnecessary.
In the article belowđ, the authors discuss the benefits and negative effects of PDA on relationships, misconceptions and cultural boundaries around PDA, as well as the psychology of couples who show PDA. The authors also asked a psychologist who specializes in relationships for some tips on how to talk to your partner about PDA. In the examples below I was surprise that complimenting others, maybe an example of PDA.
There are a few potential reasons why some couples may engage in frequent public displays of affection:
- Expressing strong feelings: For some couples, frequently showing physical affection in public is a way to express the depth of their emotional connection and feelings for one another. This can stem from a desire to share their love openly.
- Seeking attention or validation: In some cases, public displays of affection may be a way for couples to seek attention, validation, or approval from others. This could arise from insecurities or a need for external validation of their relationship.
- Impulsiveness or lack of self-control: Certain couples may simply have difficulty regulating their physical intimacy and feel compelled to express it publicly, even if it makes onlookers uncomfortable.
- Establishing relationship status: Overt public affection can be a way for couples, especially younger ones, to signal the status of their relationship to peers and the outside world.
- Cultural norms: The prevalence and acceptability of public displays of affection can vary considerably across different cultures and social contexts. What seems excessive in one setting may be seen as normal in another.
Ultimately, the motivations behind constant public displays of affection are complex and can differ from couple to couple. While it may stem from sincere feelings, it can also indicate underlying issues like insecurity or a lack of discretion.
Examples of PDA
There are a few potential reasons why some couples may engage in frequent public displays of affection:
- Expressing strong feelings: For some couples, frequently showing physical affection in public is a way to express the depth of their emotional connection and feelings for one another. This can stem from a desire to share their love openly.
- Seeking attention or validation: In some cases, public displays of affection may be a way for couples to seek attention, validation, or approval from others. This could arise from insecurities or a need for external validation of their relationship.
- Impulsiveness or lack of self-control: Certain couples may simply have difficulty regulating their physical intimacy and feel compelled to express it publicly, even if it makes onlookers uncomfortable.
- Establishing relationship status: Overt public affection can be a way for couples, especially younger ones, to signal the status of their relationship to peers and the outside world.
- Cultural norms: The prevalence and acceptability of public displays of affection can vary considerably across different cultures and social contexts. What seems excessive in one setting may be seen as normal in another.
Ultimately, the motivations behind constant public displays of affection are complex and can differ from couple to couple. While it may stem from sincere feelings, it can also indicate underlying issues like insecurity or a lack of discretion.
These are some examples of PDA:
- Holding hands with your partner
- Kissing their lips, cheek, forehead, neck, or hand
- Hugging, holding, or cuddling them
- Touching or stroking them
- Playing with their fingers or hair
- Massaging their shoulders, back, hands, or feet
- Putting your arms around their waist or shoulder
- Feeding them a bite of food
- Holding them close while dancing
- Sitting on their lap
- Whispering in their ear
- Gazing into their eyes
- Winking at them
- Blowing them a kiss
- Telling them you love them
- Complimenting them
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