If you have kids in school, you likely already know that PDA stands for public displays of affection, and that such action is generally forbidden in schools. I can understand it to a point, and the hands-off approach is probably best during the school day.
However, when it comes to us married people, there is nothing wrong with PDA. In fact, public displays of affection are healthy. I am clearly not talking about groping each other in public, but holding hands, putting an arm around your spouse’s shoulder, or a hug are certainly acceptable. I think it is important to show our feelings for each other, even when other people are around, and especially in front of our kids.
A warm embrace or a quick kiss between you and your spouse may trigger sighs, eye rolls, or sounds of disgust, but you’re children really do feel safer when they know that you and your spouse care deeply for each one another. PDA are also healthy ways to show children that every person needs some level of human contact and that it is okay to give and receive physical warmth when and in which manner it is appropriate.
*The appropriateness discussion is up to you to address. It is an imperative element, but we all have different values, and you also know your children best.
Through personal observation, I have noted that children whose parents practice PDA are more likely to reach out for a hug when needed and are more comfortable with physical affection than those whose parents are distant physically. This is of course anecdotal, but it says to me that appropriate PDA is good and healthy not only for each spouse but also for the entire immediate family.
Go hug your husband or wife! What are you waiting for?