Are College Students Turning Down the Heat? Investigating The Decrease of Sexual Activity Among College Students

Author: Kristen Lodge

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: McNair Scholars Program

Faculty Mentors: Ann Merriwether, Sean Massey

Easel: 46

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Previous studies have shown young people currently are having less sex and with fewer partners compared to prior generations (Herbenick et al., 2022; Twenge et al., 2017). Sexual activity among young people was decreasing even before the COVID-19 pandemic, which has likely exacerbated this decline. Since positive sexual activity is an indicator of individual well-being, a decrease in sexual activity may contribute to a decreased level of overall well-being (Debrot et al., 2017; Ganong & Larson, 2011). The existing research has focused on factors such as economic insecurity, the decline in the formation of romantic relationships, and decreased alcohol use (Lei & South, 2021). However, there has been limited research on variables specific to Gen Z, such as increased pornography consumption and social anxiety rates. Data was collected and analyzed from college students at a mid-sized public university. Preliminary results indicate a declining trend in sexual activity.