Bad kissing, unfortunately, is a common dating complaint. A study even showed that 60% of respondents would end a relationship due to poor kissing skills. So what constitutes a "bad kisser?" It's a multifaceted issue, encompassing both technical aspects and overall approach.
Physical Aspects of Bad Kissing:
- Poor Hygiene: Bad breath, unclean teeth, or other unsavory smells are major turn-offs. This is a fundamental issue easily avoidable with proper oral hygiene.
- Poor Technique: This includes overly aggressive or forceful kissing, excessive saliva, jerky movements, and a lack of responsiveness to the partner's style. One Reddit thread described bad kissing as "going through some pre-programmed motions" instead of engaging with the other person. Another source described bad kissing as akin to "a limp wristed handshake," lacking interest or thought.
- Excessive Tongue Use: While tongue is an important part of kissing for many, too much tongue can be overwhelming and unpleasant. A good kisser uses their tongue subtly and responds to their partner's cues.
- Lack of Sensitivity: Not paying attention to your partner's reactions and failing to adjust your style based on their responses is a significant problem. A good kisser will pause, observe, and mirror their partner's style, as one Reddit comment suggested. Conversely, a bad kisser will continue with their technique regardless of the partner's reaction.
Behavioral Aspects of Bad Kissing:
- Lack of Engagement: Simply going through the motions without genuine connection or passion is often considered bad kissing. It's about the connection, not just the physical act.
- Inappropriate Pressure/Force: A forceful kiss, like a bulldozer as one Quora respondent described, isn't pleasant for most. Gentle pressure is generally preferred.
- Ignoring Partner's Cues: A skilled kisser adjusts their approach to match their partner's preferences. Ignoring these cues shows a lack of care and consideration.
Many sources highlight the importance of subtlety and responsiveness in good kissing. A good kisser makes their partner want more, as another Reddit thread suggested.