Over One-Third of College Students Use Phones During Sex

Recent research reveals that over one-third of American college students admit to using their phones during sexual encounters. A survey conducted among 100,000 students aged 18 and over through the social media platforms YikYak and Sidechat found that approximately 35% of respondents, equating to around 35,000 individuals, have engaged with their devices while being intimate.

The survey highlights a notable trend among Generation Z, indicating a significant level of screen dependency. Participants reported various activities, including sending texts and watching videos, exemplifying how deeply intertwined technology has become with everyday experiences, even in intimate settings.

Insights into Modern Relationships

In addition to the surprising statistic regarding phone usage, the survey posed other questions related to sexual behavior and relationships. A notable 23% of the respondents admitted to having sexual encounters while a roommate was present in the room. Conversely, a majority, specifically 72%, stated they met their current or most recent partner in person, challenging the narrative that modern relationships are predominantly formed online.

These findings appear to counteract the prevalent notion that Gen Z is experiencing a “sex recession.” The data suggests that younger college students, generally aged between 18 and 22, have different relationship dynamics compared to those aged 22 to 34, who have been the focus of many recent studies. Many in the older cohort experienced social isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic, which may have contributed to their anxiety around sexual relationships.

Context of Sexual Activity in Young Adults

The National Survey of Family Growth released last year indicated a disturbing trend, noting an increase in sexlessness among adults aged 22 to 34. The report highlighted that 10% of young males and 7% of young females in this age bracket identify as virgins. According to the Institute of Family Studies, sexlessness among young adult males has roughly doubled over the past decade, while the rate for young adult females has increased by approximately 50%.

The recent findings from the YikYak and Sidechat survey suggest a divergence in sexual behavior between these age groups. The return to in-person college experiences may have led younger Gen Z individuals to adopt a more open attitude toward sexuality, contrasting sharply with the hesitations observed in their older peers.

In summary, while the survey reveals a significant reliance on technology during intimate moments, it also paints a broader picture of evolving social norms and relationship dynamics among younger college students. The implications of these trends warrant further exploration, particularly as societal attitudes toward sex continue to evolve in the wake of the pandemic.