Specialists have highlighted a challenging issue that many Gen Z couples face when it comes to intimacy.
During intimate moments with a partner, most people prefer to enjoy the experience without interruptions.
However, recent findings indicate that young individuals are encountering a unique challenge that is particularly prevalent in their generation – limited privacy.
Members of Gen Z often live in shared accommodations, whether with friends, roommates, or with their family.
Pew Research data shows that California has the largest percentage of young adults residing with their parents (33 percent), while states like Texas, Nebraska, New York, and Indiana have significantly lower rates (three percent).
A study conducted by the sexual wellness company Lovehoney indicates that these living situations are negatively impacting the sexual lives of young people, leading to what is described as an ‘intimacy crisis.’
Young people are reportedly engaging in sexual activities 49 percent less frequently than the general population, and they also report experiencing less satisfying sexual encounters. Additionally, 40 percent of participants in the study noted that their living arrangements directly affected their sexual experiences.
Most respondents (more than 75 percent) stated that they would not consider bringing a one-night stand home.
Despite this, young people are not lacking in innovative solutions.
The research showed that 22 percent have turned to having sexual encounters in bathrooms, 18 percent in vehicles, and 28 percent have opted for rented accommodations like hotels or Air BnBs.
Mahima Chaudhary, who lives with her mother, brother, and boyfriend, finds it difficult to spend ‘quality time’ with her partner.
The 25-year-old commented: “We can’t just cook dinner, watch a film or be silly and dance around in our underwear – all the things that make a relationship feel fun and intimate – because there’s always someone else around.”
Mahima also mentioned that even simple gestures like ‘holding hands or cuddling’ feel uncomfortable in the presence of family.
“It’s only when we go on holiday that we feel like we can properly connect as a couple,” she added.
Annabelle Knight, a Sex and Relationship expert at Lovehoney, offered advice for those trying to ‘reclaim’ their intimacy while sharing living spaces.
“Instead of waiting for the house to go quiet (which makes every squeak feel louder!), look ahead to when parents or flatmates are out,” Knight suggested.
She further advised discussing the situation openly with roommates, as ‘a bit of honesty can go a long way,’ although she admitted that it’s a bit more ‘tricky’ to have this conversation with parents.
“But even setting boundaries around personal space helps,” Knight recommended.
If these strategies are not possible, she suggested considering a hotel stay or an alternative location, such as a car, to maintain intimacy.
She concluded: “At the end of the day, intimacy doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful – it’s about creativity, communication, and making the most of the moments you do have.”