Technology is taking over the world from left, right, and center. The use of online dating sites and apps can be attributed to the increasing trend of hookups and casual dating. From the convenience of your mobile phone, tablet, or computer, you can make arrangements to meet and have sex casually in the same day.Â
The hookup culture is not only widespread among students in colleges and universities but also among other adults who want to have fun without any commitments. As a widespread mindset in society, people experience peer pressure to participate in it, and people will find themselves being influenced to join in soon after attaining adulthood. Clearly, hookup culture has changed the sexual norms in both positive and negative ways. Let us dive into these impacts.
Positive Impact of Hookup Culture on Sexual Norms
- New openness about discussing sexual matters – In a good way, hookups have changed how people talk about sex. In some cultures around the world, it is taboo to discuss some of these things. But this evolving norm has eased tension around discussing such topics, and people can talk about sex without placing too much seriousness into the topic.
- Helping young adults to understand their emotions – Although having sex with random strangers is not recommended, relaxed sexual norms allow young people to understand what they really want.Â
- No commitments – Hookup culture is quickly eliminating the requirement for relationship commitments. You can have sexual adventures with those you choose without necessarily being in a relationship. Enjoying hookup culture any day is easy if you just have the right app or visit the right website.
- Sex can earn you money where this is legal – Probably, you have heard of the commercial sex business. Today, several casual sex websites offer paid hookups in countries that allow this. For these models and the agencies that organize the business, this is a great way to earn money.
Negative Impact of Hookup Culture on Sexual Norms
On the flip side, hookup culture has negatively impacted certain sexual norms. Experts agree that serious and committed relationships are becoming less common because people can easily find casual sex partners anytime they want through hookup apps. Additionally, the culture has even trickled down to married couples, where many no longer keep sexual intimacy within their marriage. Many find it easy to organize a hookup whenever they want.Â
Hookups increase the chances of contracting sexually transmitted illnesses if one is a bit careless. This is even more likely for young adults who first consume alcohol before having sex during a hookup. Remember that there are many ways to hookup without having sex.
Conclusion
For one to enjoy the benefits of this new normal, it is crucial to take all the necessary precautions such as using known hookup apps or dating sites, vetting potential partners quickly before hooking up, and only engaging in protected sex. One would also want to avoid becoming too intoxicated with alcohol or drugs to reduce the risks. Put into practice the insights shared above to enjoy hookup relationships.
