The Truth About (The Lack Of) Gen Z Sexuality

Gen Z Sexuality: Are Young Adults Shying Away from Sex?

Love and relationships today don’t look the same as they did in the past. Generation Z, made up of those born between 1997 and 2012, is changing how we think about sex. A 2021 survey by the Kinsey Institute and Lovehoney found that one in four Gen Zers has never had partnered sex. With members of this generation reaching 27 years old, it’s time to explore what’s happening with Gen Z sexuality.

Image Source: Lovehoney

You would think that growing up in a world of smartphones and social media would make talking about sex easier. However, many Gen Zers struggle to express their desires and boundaries with their partners. Despite being plugged into constant communication, they often find it hard to have honest conversations about intimacy. Even though Gen Z is known for communicating their ideas and perspectives about inclusivity and fluidity, many still feel pressured to define their sexual identity. This pressure can turn labeling from a personal choice into something that feels mandatory, complicating relationships and experiences. Therapists who work with Gen Z sexuality have explained how this pressure to fit into labels (ironically) makes it difficult for them to explore their sexualities. The fear of not fitting in and being rejected is universal through age and culture.

“With the openness of social media and recognition of multiple sexual identities, teens are feeling both more acceptance and pressure to explore themselves to not fit into a box. Sexual freedom has led to concerns of, ‘What if I don’t want sex to be casual?’ ‘What if I don’t know what I like and everyone else does?’” said Los Angeles therapist Torri Efron Pelton.

Many people experience nerves before intimate moments, but Gen Z faces additional challenges. With social media setting high expectations around sex, feelings of performance anxiety are common. The culture of “cancel culture” and narrow portrayals of sexuality can make many feel unsafe or unvalued in intimate settings. Interestingly, Gen Z is widely known as the generation that is most comfortable with kink, especially BDSM. The ability to explore sex online and sex toys has made it possible and common to have a sex life without a partner. Moreover, the rise of unwanted sexually explicit messages—commonly known as “unwanted nudes”—creates an uncomfortable environment. This experience can discourage open dialogue about sexual relationships, making it even harder to communicate feelings.

Gen Z women seem particularly careful when it comes to sex. Growing concerns about reproductive rights have influenced how they approach relationships. Awareness of potential risks and consequences makes many young women think twice before becoming sexually active. When it comes to mental health, Gen Z reports higher levels of stress and anxiety than Millennials and Gen X. This stress can lead to lower levels of sexual activity. With so many obligations and worries, many young adults don’t have the energy for sexual exploration. Interestingly, compared to older generations, Gen Z appears less willing to take risks when it comes to sex. Many members of this generation express distrust towards sexual partners, making them question whether what a partner says about their health is true.

The sexual habits of Generation Z are complex and revealing. Factors like communication struggles, pressure to label themselves, increased anxiety, and the impact of social media shape their approach to intimacy. While Gen Z promotes inclusivity and self-expression, they face real relationship challenges. Their choices reflect the complicated influences of today’s society, showing that Gen Z sexuality is not as easy as it might seem.

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