Exploring the Unexpected: Gen Z, Sex, and Kink - A Kinsey Institute Report on Digital Dating Apps
Exploration of Intimacy among Generation Z - predominantly abstinent, yet exhibiting unconventional preferences - Research on Sexual Behaviors Among Generation Z: Mostly Abstaining, Yet Exhibiting Unconventional Practices
By Gernot Kramper- - - 3 Min
The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has recently unveiled a fascinating study titled "Redefining Relationships and Sexuality: A Gen Z Perspective Based on Feeld App Data". The report delves into the unique sexual behaviors and preferences of Generation Z, primarily focusing on over 3,310 Feeld app users from 71 countries.
The Feeld app circles a particular demographic group, catering to individuals seeking non-monogamy, polyamory, casual hookups, kink, swinging, and a variety of alternative relationship models. As a result, this sample may not be entirely representative of the general population. For instance, the New York Times has dubbed Feeld as the "Dating App for Threesomes and More"[1].
It's a Hot App, But Are They Getting Enough Action?
Although the app features a broader sexual landscape, the findings are surprising. According to the study, the average number of sexual encounters for Gen Z in the past month is equivalent to 3 times, which is comparable to Baby Boomers born before 1964[2]. Conversely, Millennials and Generation X average roughly 5 times a month. It appears that younger generations are having sex later and less frequently than their predecessors[2].
Gen Z's Kinky Side Rises to the Surface
Interestingly, Generation Z members are far from timid when it comes to exploring new sexual preferences and kinks. At least 55% of Gen Z participants report discovering a new kink or fetish since joining Feeld, a figure that outpaces Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers by substantial margins[2]. Researchers suggest that older adults have already experimented with various sexual preferences, leaving limited room for new discoveries[2].
Among Gen Z, Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism (BDSM) are on the rise, with 56% of Gen Z reporting these practices as the "new normal". Millennials closely follow with 52%, while Generation X and Baby Boomers trail behind with 31% and 12%, respectively[2]. This data is backed by other surveys conducted by the institute, indicating that 79% of college students with partners engage in "kinky sex"[3].
Lehmiller, the study author, deems this trend unsurprising. He attributes it to the wide availability of pornography and the mainstreaming of fetishes and kinky sexual practices in movies, talk shows, and other media[2].
Although their fantasies are more explicit, it remains uncertain if these desires translate into actions. Gen Z seems to find themselves busy with school, work, and personal lives, as nearly half of them are reportedly single, in contrast to older generations, which have lower rates of singleness[2].
Sources: Psychology Today, NYT, EurekAlert!
- Sex
- Dating
- Sado-Maso
- Bondage
In-depth Insights:- Kinky Fantasies and Openness: Generation Z displays a greater openness to kink and fantasy compared to previous generations, with 55% of members discovering new preferences on the Feeld app[1].- Frequency of Sexual Activity: Despite being more open to kink, Gen Z has a lower frequency of sexual activity compared to millennials, Gen X, and boomers at similar ages, with the average frequency being around 3 times a month[1].- Intimacy and Connection: Gen Z prefers sexual activities that emphasize intimacy and connection. They favor cuddling, prolonged physical closeness, and emotional bonding over traditional kinks[1].- Reduced Popularity of Traditional Kinks: Traditional kinks such as feet, latex, and roleplay have seen a decline in popularity among Generation Z compared to previous generations[1].- Impact of Digital Media: Exposure to digital media and online pornography has both positively and negatively influenced Gen Z's sexual behaviors and preferences, sometimes leading to challenges in interpersonal relationships and skills[1].
- Gen Z users on the Feeld app, specifically the youngest among them, are more open to exploring new sexual kinks and preferences, with 55% reporting discovering a new fetish or kink since joining the app.
- In contrast to their increased openness to kink, Generation Z participants are having sex less frequently compared to previous generations, with an average of 3 times per month, a figure comparable to Baby Boomers.
- Among the various kinks and practices on Feeld, Gen Z shows a growing interest in BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism), with 56% considering it the "new normal", a proportion that outpaces other generations.
