Gen Z has less intimacy than other generations
Sep 22, 2026, 5:46 PM | Updated: Sep 23, 2026, 2:41 pm
We hear plenty about hookup culture, but the numbers tell a different story. I’m actually sad about this.
A 2025 analysis from the Institute for Family Studies, using the 2024 General Social Survey, found that 24 percent of adults ages 18–29 reported no sex in the previous year—roughly double the share in 2010. And it’s not just younger adults. Among Americans ages 18–64, the percentage reporting sex at least weekly fell from 55 percent in 1990 to 37 percent in 2024.
Gen Z says that they have the desire to have sex but don’t. Why? Gen Z blames technology, mental health and money as key factors.
Gen Z blames technology for the following reasons:
- 25 percent say they are fulfilled by online interaction
- 28 percent say screen time reduces their in-person motivation
- 34 percent of young men says porn satisfies their desire. Social interactions are not as important.
Another factor is mental health, and that is the side of the coin we should be concerned about.
33 percent take antidepressants or anti-anxiety meds that can affect sexual drive. There is also a fear of rejection and fear of interactions.
And finally, money – it’s expensive to go on dates. Money makes it harder to date. 64 percent still live with their parents.
Also alarming…Gen Z and younger Americans are not having as much sex, but when they do, it is unprotected. 61 percent surveyed said they do not practice safe sex. Top reasons why…44 percent trust their partner and 29 percent blames social media discouraging birth control. It is important to note that using condoms and practicing safe sex does reduce chances of getting pregnant.
Read more about the survey and theories here.
