Kissing – 3 theories behind our act of kissing.
Kissing ranks as one of the most common expressions of sexual and romantic affection in many cultures worldwide. However, kissing is by no means a universal practice. Researchers, in fact, have not found evidence of kissing in a surprisingly large number of cultures across the globe. But why is it the case in those cultures where kisses are exchanged? So, how did it ever come to be that lips and tongues touched, and saliva was exchanged? Here’s an overview of several key theories explaining the popularity of kisses
Kissing has the potential to assist us in “selecting” a partner.
Some scientists argue that kissing might serve as a means to evaluate the potential quality of a partner. Getting closer and more personal, including literally smelling and tasting our partners, could be a mechanism we’ve evolved to detect chemical signals that aid us in identifying higher-quality partners. In line with this notion, certain studies have found that during the most fertile phase of the menstrual cycle, women rate kissing as more significant compared to other times of the month. This lends support to the idea that kissing could potentially be an evolved tool for partner selection.
Kissing could potentially have health benefits
Close-up of a couple kissing. Another theory suggests that we kiss to maintain good health through the exchange of bacteria. One study found that a single deep kiss can facilitate the exchange of up to 80 million bacteria! The more a couple kisses, the more similar the bacterial composition of their mouths becomes. How could this benefit our health? One theory suggests that if a kiss occurs with a partner before pregnancy, it increases the likelihood that certain infections, such as human cytomegalovirus or HCMV, will occur at a time when they are unlikely to cause problems. If HCMV occurs during pregnancy, it can have adverse effects on the health of the fetus. Therefore, kissing may be a way to control exposure to infections that could negatively impact reproductive success. No single theory is definitive, and it’s quite possible that not just one of these theories holds true. However, research suggests that kissing may have a much deeper significance than any of us ever realized.
Giving kisses is delightful.
Lips are considered erogenous zones, which means they are more sensitive due to the abundance of nerve endings. The result of passionate kissing is thus an amazing sensation that both parties enjoy in that moment. At the same time, kissing is also an activity that many of us have learned as a way to express affection and build intimacy. It gives us a sense of security and closeness. However, we can kiss for reasons that go much further. Some research actually suggests that kissing could be an evolved behavior that helps us identify good partners. It can also potentially benefit our health – and the health of our descendants. Lips are considered erogenous zones, which means they are more sensitive due to the abundance of nerve endings. The result of passionate kissing is thus an amazing sensation that both parties enjoy in that moment.
