Public Display of Affection: Is It Good for a Relationship?

In this article, we discuss the effects of PDA on relationships, misconceptions around PDA, as well as the psychology of couples who show PDA.

April 26, 2025 · 1 min · 51 words · Jennifer Smith

Table of Contents

Hugging, kissing, or holding your partners hand in public are some examples of PDA.

PDA can be a controversial subject.

Highlights Differences in Values

Some partners do not have compatible preferences when it comes to PDA.

A man kissing his girlfriend on the cheek as she takes a selfie of the two of them while out for a walk in the city together.

Willie B. Thomas / Getty Images

2021;16(11):e0259102.

2022;39(9):2914-2938. doi:10.1177/02654075221090678