The state of sex among Gen Z: Is the sex recession real?

A Kinsey Institute survey of 2,373 U.S. adults aged 18-29 found that many Gen Z individuals report low levels of sexual activity despite moderate to high desire. Factors like dating exhaustion, financial strain, and changing social norms contribute to this trend, while many are finding intimacy through digital connections and friendships.
Why it matters
This research sheds light on evolving sexual behaviors and relationship dynamics among young adults, challenging traditional assumptions about well-being and intimacy in the digital age.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain The Kinsey Institute surveyed 2,373 U.S. adults ages 18–29 to understand attitudes and behaviors behind the so-called sex recession and how young adults are navigating sex, dating and relationships today.
Findings are based on a large, quota-based U.S. sample designed to capture diverse experiences.
Most young adults report low levels of sexual activity, despite moderate to high sexual desire. The survey found that 29% had zero partners in the past three months and 19% had never had a partner.
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