Marty Lobdell
Staff Writer 

You have probably seen public sex in movies, e.g., the elevator scene in Fatal Attraction.  Although many people have had public sex, there are risks. In fact, the riskiness of public sex is likely why it is arousing for some people.

A terrible outcome can occur when a couple is having sex in public without knowing that they are being watched/photographed. There have been cases where a person observing a couple has decided that it looks like fun and forcibly joined the activity. This is not what most couples would hope for. If photographed, the risk of blackmail is another consideration. And the photographs could simply be placed on the Internet without either person’s consent or awareness.

The greatest risk in public sex is being observed by a police officer. One can be arrested and typically charged with public indecency.  This is a gross misdemeanor in most jurisdiction but could be a felony. Some communities also publish arrest reports in the local newspaper. Friends and family would probably be discomforted by reading about such activities. A word to the wise: should you ever engage in public sex and an officer catches you…be contrite. Let the officer know how bad you feel for having done it, and you’ll never do it again. This is not a time to cop an attitude. Getting in an officer’s face nearly guarantees he/she will arrest you and go for the severest charge possible. Remember, the investigating officer has the greatest latitude in the criminal justice system. You can be arrested or told to put your clothing on and go home. Once arrested the options are extremely narrow.

Although some may find it arousing to have public sex, others may find it inhibiting. Inability to erect, become aroused, or reach climax can occur if people become anxious about being seen doing sex.

All in all, most people prefer private settings for their sexual activities. Nonetheless, some will go for the thrill of public sex; even though, there are potential negative consequences.

Something that is related to the above is filming one’s self in the nude or having sex, and sending the material via the internet. Once sent, it can’t be recalled and the pictures/videos can take on a life of their own. Although there is the thrill of intimate disclosures to a significant other, there are no guarantees that the other person will continue to be a significant other. As one of my friends said, “it’s all love going in, but it isn’t coming out.” In a breakup people sometimes do incredibly mean things to their former partners. Embarrassing pictures/videos are things most people would not want published.

And last there are Public Displays of Affection (PDAs).  PDAs are not sex in the usual sense, however, sometimes the kissing, touching, and rubbing come pretty close. Since PDAs are not illegal, they are more likely to occur in public places with people around. Some people are extremely annoyed by PDAs while others let it go. Older people are more likely to be offended. A possible “rule of thumb” might be: would you be comfortable with your parents watching the PDA? If the answer is no, then maybe a private setting would be more appropriate.