For decades, societal norms surrounding sex have shifted dramatically. From the repressed eras of the mid-20th century to the sexual revolution of the 1960s and beyond, attitudes and behaviors have evolved. Now, a new trend is emerging: young people are engaging in sexual activity at significantly lower rates than previous generations. This isn’t a localized phenomenon; it’s a global shift observed in countries from the US and the UK to Japan and Germany. But why? And does it matter?
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Data from the General Social Survey in the US shows a stark doubling in the percentage of 18- to 29-year-olds reporting no sexual activity in the past year, rising from 12% in 2010 to 24% in 2024. Japan, facing a demographic crisis, has seen half of its young adults remain sexually inexperienced through their mid-20s, contributing to a million-person population decline in 2024 alone. This isn’t simply about changing preferences; it’s a systemic shift with far-reaching implications.
Economic Hardship and Delayed Independence
One key factor is economic instability. Rising housing costs, student debt, and precarious employment leave many young people financially dependent on their parents well into their 20s and 30s. As Luke Brunning, a researcher at the University of Leeds, points out, “If you’re living at home, it’s not necessarily the most conducive environment to having lots of sex.” This economic reality forces many to delay or forgo sexual exploration altogether.
Sobriety and Changing Social Norms
Another piece of the puzzle is the rise in sobriety among young people. Gallup data shows a 10% decline in alcohol consumption among 18- to 34-year-olds over the past two decades. This shift, dubbed “Generation Sensible,” reflects a broader trend toward healthier lifestyles and reduced risk-taking.
The Digital Divide and Loneliness
The rise of digital communication has also played a role. While dating apps promise connection, they often deliver isolation. Gen Z has been labeled “the most connected but loneliest generation,” with digital interactions substituting for real-world intimacy. The irony is stark: hyper-connectivity hasn’t translated into increased sexual activity.
Mental Health and Anxiety
Mental health struggles are on the rise among young people, and anxiety can be a significant barrier to sexual exploration. The fear of rejection, performance anxiety, or simply the overwhelming pressure to conform can paralyze individuals. The less one engages in sexual activity, the more daunting it becomes, creating a vicious cycle.
Is This a Crisis?
The question remains: is this decline in sexual activity a cause for concern? For some, the answer is yes. Sex has been linked to improved quality of life, overall health, and even social cohesion. Others argue that it’s simply a matter of changing priorities. If young people are content with their choices, there’s no inherent problem.
The Shifting Landscape
Ultimately, the decline in sexual activity among young people is a complex phenomenon driven by economic hardship, changing social norms, and the rise of digital isolation. Whether it’s a crisis or simply a new reality remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the landscape of sex and relationships is undergoing a dramatic transformation.
The underlying issue may not be a lack of sex itself, but the broader societal factors that contribute to alienation, economic insecurity, and mental health struggles. Politicians who worry about declining birth rates should focus on addressing these root causes rather than trying to force people into having more sex. The solution isn’t about promoting promiscuity; it’s about creating a world where young people feel safe, secure, and empowered to live fulfilling lives—whatever that may look like
