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: 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. But many are not particularly distressed by it.
Only a minority report dissatisfaction with their sex lives, suggesting that sex may be less central to overall well-being than many assume. Only 18% are unsatisfied with their sex life. Dating exhaustion, fear of rejection, financial strain and changing social norms may be making connection more difficult.
For 43%, financial concerns made it harder to date or maintain romantic relationships and, for 37%, financial stress has negatively affected their sex life. Young adults are increasingly meeting intimacy needs in other ways. Digital connection, online sexual experiences, friendships and other forms of fulfillment may be reducing the pressure to pursue traditional romantic relationships.
Approximately 1 in 4 say online interactions (e.g., messaging, social media, AI companions) fulfill some of their intimacy or emotional needs, and 28% report that spending time on screens or digital activities reduces their motivation to pursue in-person sexual connections. While Gen Z may be having less sex, the sex they are having is not necessarily safer. Contraceptive use is often inconsistent, many have never been tested for STIs, and perceptions of access do not always translate into protective behaviors.
Only 35% report typically using condoms, and approximately a third report never having been tested for STIs. BSc Life Sciences & Ecology. Microbiology lab background with pharmaceutical news experience in oil, gas, and renewable industries.
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