How much PDA is "too much" PDA?

Recently, during a short layover at an airport on my way home from Tennessee, I was privy to a show of public affection that literally went on for hours. At first, I didn't give it much thought. I was traveling alone, but I had my e-books, music and iPhone with me. In other words, there was plenty to entertain me. Initially, I figured the couple sitting one row up and on the left were perhaps on their honeymoon. After a while, honeymoon or not, the constant and continuous smooching, pawing and giggling started to wear on me.

So when are public displays of affection acceptable?

Most likely the answer to this question varies from individual to individual. Some people may find anything more than a quick peck on the cheek, a nice little goodbye kiss that is short and discreet or a pat on the shoulder to be inappropriate. Others may feel a limit should be attached according to age appropriateness. Oh, by the way, the couple smooching for hours in the airport were not in the throes of young love. Ew! Does that fact make it a little less tolerable? Maybe flagrant love should only be reserved for the young and the beautiful.

Is it just naturally awkward watching other people make out?

It may vary from culture to culture actually, but in American culture some people feel like they are intruding when in the presence of a couple who are enjoying each other's company way too much. Other folks may feel a bit like a third wheel, but are satisfied that it's just an expression of love and merely look the other way.

Why do people make out in public?

Plenty of couples probably just get carried away in the moment. Other couples actually find the idea of making out in public to be exciting.

Does location matter?

If you really want to indulge in a little public display of affection, then where you are at the time could have some bearing on the outcome. Party settings like clubs are widely more acceptable places to grind and grope. A public park might be fine, too, until you discover that you've attracted some guy hiding in the bushes enjoying the free show.

There probably is no set answer to the question of when is a public display of affection too much. Each individual, in the end, needs to define their own comfort level with such matters. However, once you know what that level of comfort is, you should never be made to feel that you have to cross your own line of demarcation. Stand your ground! As for what to do about the others, the ones who are sitting one row up and to the left, just close your eyes and hum a tune.

Personally, I cannot stand immense amounts of PDA. It's okay to give swift little kisses but don't eat each other's face off like there's a zombie apocalypse going on around you. Gag. Have respect for the people around you...rather it be a family with children or a bitter old woman. Just be respectful.