Are Gen Z phasing out the one night stand?

Of course the critics are close at hand, with some concerned that a retreat from physical intimacy could lead to increased loneliness amongst Gen Z, and a long-term impact on birthrates – which in turn, means bad news for the economy.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Steering clear of one night stands hardly means young people are retreating into solitary lifestyles. If anything, it highlights a generational focus on more sincere and lasting connections.

The growth of wellness trends is also encouraging young people to get outside and interact face to face, following years of remote work and virtual interaction. This period of isolation is likely to have fostered a more positive perspective on love and intimacy, as we crave the IRL connection we’ve been starved of since the pandemic.

Travel has also become a major focus for professionals feeling burnt out by the usual corporate career path. This means young people are finding partners from all over the world, and expanding their social horizons in the process.

The funny thing is, millennials swear they were fighting for ‘choices’ when it came to how women approached sex. Gen Z are using their freedom to choose (thanks btw) to consider how casual sex actually serves them and are being called… prudes? Isn’t that regression?

— T✨ (@txadel_) December 3, 2022

All of these facts and figures fly in the face of pervasive stereotypes; that Gen Z are more likely to fall into situationships, or that they’re more picky when it comes to finding a partner and thus more likely to stray from commitment.

On the contrary, it seems that a lot of young people are taking their romantic endeavours more seriously than their parents. With so much else on their mind, including the economy, workplace fulfillment, and the impending doom of living on a burning planet, it’s no wonder many of us are thinking more carefully before jumping into bed with someone. After all, who has time to waste on the wrong person?

If you ask me, it’s reassuring that during times of such socio-political instability, Gen Z are maintaining a positive outlook on the future. At least when it comes to their love life.

Many young people have stated they want to find their soulmate, and more than 40% are in serious relationships, while 27% are seeking out ‘the one’. That’s compared with a relatively cynical view of long-term marriage amongst Millennials.

As rigid constructs of gender turn on their heads, so too do outdated images of marriage, making this kind of unionship more relatable and accessible to young people from all backgrounds.

‘Older generations may have felt drawn to marriage out of necessity or obligated based on societal pressures which also led to high divorce rates, but Gen Z sees things differently,’ Stephanie Kaplan Lewis, co-founder & CEO of Her Campus Media, told Newsweek. ‘For them, there is renewed hope in committing to a partner and having a built in support system.’

In essence, Gen Z isn’t reverting to conservative norms; they’re redefining intimacy. Prioritizing mental health, meaningful connections, and personal well-being over fleeting encounters reflects a generation unafraid to challenge societal expectations.