As the title clearly states, this is directed toward couples who overly exhibit public displays of affection, also known as PDA couples. Let me be clear: by PDA, I am not speaking about your simple peck on the cheek, a short kiss on the lips or even a particularly lengthy hug. What I am talking about is the overly touchy, seen making out, probably known by people as that couple, the couple that nobody wants to hang out with because of the PDA. Chances are, you know (or may very well be) a couple like this. Everyone clearly feels awkward and uncomfortable when around these types of couples, and that even includes other couples.
Now, I am not just some guy who’s single and just “hating” on couples for being affectionate with each other. I have been in a relationship for almost four years with a wonderful girl, and even being in a relationship I get uncomfortable and annoyed with couples that seem to be all over each other in public. I know for a fact I am not the only one who feels that way when seeing overly physical couples. The average Joe does not walk out the door in the morning hoping to see a couple devouring each other’s faces with kisses as he walks down the street.
I have personally witnessed numerous friends over the past five years who will purposefully avoid going to an event if a PDA couple is going to be present. I have heard and been a part of the laments of individuals who love the couple when they are separate; when they are apart, they aren't infatuated with each other and aren't being inappropriate or behaving in a socially unacceptable manner. Yet for some reason, certain people just seem to be incapable of behaving like a normal human being when in a relationship. They feel the need to display their affection to the entire world, to have everyone know that because of how physical they are, they are really into each other or are a serious relationship. It’s unappealing, it’s rude and it’s irritatingly pathetic for anyone to behave with such a lack of control or consideration for other people.
As I mentioned earlier, I have been in a relationship for a few years. I understand that kissing and hugging are enjoyable acts, especially since my love language (love language is how people feel loved, as detailed in Gary Chapman’s book The Five Love Languages) is touch. I understand that couples may just feel very close to each other when they display their affection publicly. However, I also understand that social etiquette and the general comfort of friends and family requires self-control in displays of affection. If I don't even want to see other couples having PDA, then why should I be engaging in it?
For those of you who are PDA couples, you probably don’t see a need or an importance in acting a certain way just because people have a problem with your displays of affection. Very well, you can keep doing what you’re doing if you wish. Just keep in mind, the more awkward and overtly affectionate you act, the more you isolate yourselves as the couple that just makes other people feel uncomfortable and that people just don't want to be around. Have some consideration for others. There is a time and place for displays of affection, and that is not in public for a captive audience.
