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This behavior is sometimes considered in bad taste, and in some jurisdictions it may even be criminal. It may be considered a mild form of exhibitionism, though it is also possible that the partners are simply indifferent to what others can see, and therefore not inhibited by it. It is disapproved by some and enjoyed by others, the latter being a mild form of voyeurism.

In some societies, certain couples need to be quite careful about public displays of affection. For example, in many places in North America, homosexual couples would be at risk of encountering aggression from homophobic onlookers. As a result of this, many gay rights activists have used public displays of affection as a means of defiance, treating them as political acts. For example, at McGill University, the Queer McGill organization stages "kiss-ins" in which homosexual couples get together on the steps of the Arts building and kiss. In many places around the world, couples of differing race, religion or tribe may be subject to similar problems.

Sometimes partners differ regarding how they like or dislike giving or receiving public displays of affection.