Gen Z and the Death of Hookup Culture
For years, hookup culture was framed as the quintessential youth experience—a glittering rite-of-passage full of fleeting flings and digital dalliances. But a cultural shift is underway. Gen Z is quietly redefining intimacy, turning away from casual encounters and gravitating toward deeper emotional connection, authenticity, and intentionality.
Casual Sex Is on the Decline
Research shows that casual sex among young people is steadily decreasing. Between 2007 and 2017, the share of women in their early twenties who reported casual sexual encounters dropped from 31% to 22%, and for men, from 38% to 24%.
A YouGov–Times poll found that 62% of Gen Zers say one-night stands are uncommon in their social circles. Just 23% admit to casual hookups, a dramatic drop compared to millennials, of whom 78% reported sex on a first date. For Gen Z, relationships aren’t just about now—they’re about meaning. Surveys show 52% of Gen Z dating app users are seeking long-term relationships, more than any other generation.
Mental Health and Emotional Safety
Gen Z is the most mental-health-aware generation in history. They talk openly about anxiety, depression, and emotional burnout. And they’re willing to walk away from anything that could compromise their well-being. Hookup culture, with its emphasis on physical intimacy without emotional grounding, often leaves people feeling disconnected or undervalued.
This is reflected in dating preferences: 60–65% of Gen Z singles say they prioritize authenticity, emotional connection, and honesty over physical attraction or casual relationships. For many, this isn’t about being “anti-sex”—it’s about being pro-well-being.
Technology, But with Boundaries
Yes, Gen Z still uses dating apps—but often differently. Many openly state “no hookups” in their profiles, filter matches by shared values, or avoid dating apps entirely in favor of meeting people through mutual friends or shared activities. Even when they do engage digitally, they’re more selective. Nearly half say they would walk away from someone whose values didn’t align with theirs, regardless of attraction.
Why This Matters for Women
For women, rejecting hookup culture can be deeply empowering. It’s a refusal to settle for connections that don’t honor worth, dignity, and mutual respect. By normalizing slower, intentional dating, Gen Z women are helping lead a cultural shift that prioritizes safety, emotional health, and genuine partnership.
Financial priorities are also shaping choices. Over half of Gen Z adults spend nothing on dating each month, and 46% say they would choose long-term financial stability over romantic love. For many women, that means they’re unwilling to invest time—or money—into relationships that don’t offer emotional or practical security.
A New Kind of Freedom
This isn’t about moral panic or longing for “the good old days.” It’s about choice. Gen Z is showing that the truest form of sexual liberation is the freedom to define your own terms for connection. Whether that means committed relationships, waiting for the right person, or focusing entirely on personal growth.
In a world that often moves too fast, this generation is reminding us: sometimes, the slow path is the most radical one.
Read next: Should You Have Multiple Sex Partners?
