Romance Novels - Why the scorn?

Why do some people scorn romance novels? Why do others feel shame for reading them?
We've all been there, on one side or the other. 
I'll admit, even as a self-confessed reader of romance, as well a published author in the genre, I've felt the need to hide my love of romance novels. Why? Why do so many of us feel this way? Why do we anticipate such negative responses from people when we share the truth?

Ms Rodale did some research for her master degree at New York University.  "Despite their popularity and profitability, romance novels have long been scorned and ridiculed as trashy literature. Is it the covers? Is because the audience and authors are largely comprised of women? Or it something else..." By Maya Rodale

Have a gander at this video for more: 

Carnage & romance

Did a double take at the heading?
No, this is not a post about a horror-romance crossover novel, it's a fun little fun little comic strip about those who read paranormal romance, & heck, let's be honest a fair few romantic suspense novels as well. 



Not that I read carnage or smut, (clears throat), wait... I'm a paranormal romance writer with a massive collection of romantic suspense... (sigh)... okay, I'll admit to the carnage, but I deny the smut - high class all the way, baby.