In contrast to previous generations, Gen Z appears to be moving away from casual sexual encounters, and this shift cannot be solely attributed to changes in sexual culture.
A one-night stand typically involves meeting someone and sharing a brief intimate experience, never to meet again.
This concept is often portrayed in films and television, sometimes leading to consequences later on.
While many from earlier generations engaged in such fleeting moments with strangers, recent statistics indicate that Gen Z is not following suit.
Why is there a decline?
Some suggest that the reason lies in the reduced participation of Gen Z in party culture and their lower alcohol consumption rates. Without the influence of alcohol, one-night stands might lose their appeal.
According to findings from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there has been a noticeable decline in lifetime, monthly, and yearly alcohol consumption among those aged 13 and older starting from the year 2000.
This trend affects Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, as well as some Millennials, born from 1981 to 1996.
George F. Koob from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism stated, “It is becoming clear that, for whatever reasons, today’s younger generations are just less interested in alcohol and are more likely than older generations to see it as risky for their health and to participate in periods of abstinence like Dry January.”
According to Gallup, the percentage of individuals under 35 who reported drinking decreased to 62 percent in 2021-2023, down from 72 percent in 2001-2003.
It’s possible that Gen Z avoids one-night stands because they tend to stay home more and socialize less.
Koob added, “Alcohol tends to be a social drug, even for young people, so part of the decline in underage drinking could be related to less in-person socializing.”
However, the real factor deterring Gen Z from spontaneous flings isn’t just sobriety.
The primary reason is the increasing cost of living.
One-night stands are perceived as too costly for many in Gen Z.
Research indicates that 51 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds reside in shared housing, making it challenging to invite someone over for the night.
They often find themselves needing to reduce their expenses, which impacts their privacy.
For those unable to leave their family homes, Lovehoney’s study reveals that they engage in sexual activities about 35 times a year, which is significantly lower than the national average of 68.
Nevertheless, masturbation seems to compensate for the reduced sexual activity, with 42 percent of those living at home admitting to frequent self-pleasure, 14 percent higher than the national average.
Dubbed the ‘boring’ generation, Gen Z appears to reject excessive spending, drinking, fast fashion, and a frivolous lifestyle.
Instead, they prioritize wellness, experiences, and personal growth.