How Much Is Too Much?

Students, administrators frown on excessive displays of affection

By Willie Fenner and Peter Jackson

It’s a well-known fact that sex sells, but students here on the campus of Prince George’s Community College seem to sometimes get a complimentary peepshow from some of their peers to go along with their education.

To some PGCC students, it can be quite disturbing to witness public displays of affection (PDA). What’s even more disconcerting is trying to get around the public make-out sessions in the already crowded hallways.

According to an informal survey conducted on behalf of The Owl newspaper, PGCC students are not partial in their disdain for PDA, regardless of whether it is heterosexual or homosexual. Mentioning PDA inspired the same reaction from most students—a roll of the eyes in disgust.

Most people were not happy about witnessing so much PDA on campus. Many students had the same reaction: jolly faces quickly became distressed. “I don’t care for it whether it’s homosexual or heterosexual. Holding hands is okay, but kissing and groping is too much for both,” said Michelle Whitehead, a 25-year-old accounting major.

Another level of judgment was expressed when students were questioned about homosexual PDA. Males that took the survey didn’t mind seeing two females displaying affection. However, they showed anger when asked about two men.

Brandon Moore, a 21-year-old music major, shared his opinion on the matter saying, “I feel it’s like a religion at the end of day. You can do what you feel, just don’t involve me.” But Avery Sturdivant, a 19-year-old student, said: “There’s nothing wrong with holding hands or a small kiss before a couple departs from each other.”

Over-the-top PDA also is prohibited by the PGCC official standards of student conduct. According to the “2009-2010 PGCC Student Handbook,” lewd, indecent, and obscene conduct on college property are listed as types of misconduct for which students are subject to disciplinary action.

“It is not appropriate behavior to be displayed in an educational environment such as Prince George’s Community College,” said Dr. Tyjuan Lee, Vice President of Student Services. College officials have nine options for disciplinary action ranging from warnings and probation to dismissal or expulsion of students, according to the handbook.