PDA: Please Don’t, Alright?

PDA: public display of affection. We’ve all seen it before. Although school policy states that there is zero tolerance for PDA on campus, as students, we still see it on a daily basis. PDA is rampant throughout high school campuses as well as colleges and even middle schools.
Some might consider these displays of affection as cute, heartwarming or even entertaining. The truth is, however, most people find PDA to be a daily nuisance; an annoyance and a disturbing act that not only shows disrespect, but its inconsiderateness.
For those of us who must frequently witness these acts of emotion, we tend to feel uncomfortable. The observer can feel embarrassed and thus is forced to keep their eyes away from the couple. “Don’t stare, don’t stare!” Anger is another common reaction.“Why should I have to deal with the tension and awkwardness that the couple is creating? Get a room!” There can also be a feeling of social conflict. “Are they even allowed to do that? Where is the line drawn?” The observer could feel shocked. “It’s like he is giving her CPR but she’s conscious and giving it back!” PDA might even produce a sense of insecurity amongst those who have chosen to stay single, pursuing the popular forever alone lifestyle. “Why don’t I have a girlfriend?”
By engaging in PDA, the couple is unintentionally being selfish and careless to all those around them, including teachers. So for those of you who must have your daily dose of endorphins, please do the rest of us a favor, and out of respect and consideration, practice a different kind of PDA: private display of affection. In other words, if you must, please do it somewhere else other than the hallways or the middle of the cafeteria.
I am not implying that all public displays of affection are inappropriate. I believe as high school students, we are mature enough to know where to draw the fine line between “acceptable” and “too far.” Go ahead and lock fingers on the way to the library, give that goodbye hug at the beginning of third period or briefly peck his or her lips at the end of the day.
However, please don’t play weird tongue games, use your boyfriend as a chair during lunch time, grope other people, or place your hands where they shouldn’t be. Keep your hands to yourself and simply be mindful and conscious of those around you and their level of comfort. Be respectful towards your significant other and those around you. PDA: please don’t, alright?