Have you ever had a hookup? If you are an adult who went to college in recent years, the answer is probably yes. If not, you might have heard about this culture that has taken Millennials by storm. Psychologists are concerned that this new normal in the relationship world has changed many things, and it is about to change a lot in the future. But what is this hookup culture?
First, let us define a hookup. It is an uncommitted sexual adventure people have with other people they have just met and hardly know. Some good examples are having sex with someone you just met this evening at a college party or on a dating platform. With the convenience of online hookups via dating platforms, it has become very easy to hook up, not just with random people but also with people you choose.
How Hookup Culture Began
In the 20th century, increasing automobile ownership and the popularity of bars for both sexes led to plenty of hookups. People no longer met at home or in social circles where parents were involved but in bars and movie theatres where they could do what they wanted.
By the middle of the 20th century, more young adults had become sexually liberated and could be involved in romantic activities without fear. Also, the entertainment world had grown fast, which promoted hookups. But the culture did not expand significantly until the 80s, 90s, and onwards.
Hookup Culture in Modern Times
As young adults become more sexually liberated, the internet was also advancing. For the last two decades, we have seen the changes the internet has brought to the social world.
It started with dating websites, where interested people could create a profile with all their details and the details of their ideal partner. In addition to matching people with lovers, these platforms also started matching people with casual partners for casual sex, friends with benefits, and now, hookups. And this gave the hookup culture deeper roots that we experience today.
Today, we have hookup apps for all types of people including heterosexuals and homosexuals. Some are paid while others are free. All you need is to download an app on your smartphone and start using it instantly.
Impacts of Hookup Culture
According to numerous psychologists, the hookup culture has had an impact on young people. It is easy to have sex with anyone as long as you can find them on an app and come to a mutual agreement. Hence, the meaning of sex has changed a lot; you no longer have to be in love or committed to one another.
This culture increases the chances of emotional trauma especially if you become addicted. Studies have shown that some people experience regrets after enjoying a night with their hookup, and this could lead to stress. Eventually, many people who prefer hookups struggle to start serious relationships in life.
Final Word
The hookup culture, on the other hand, has benefits such as the ease of finding a partner to have a good time with. But generally, it has affected young people who engage in it a lot. If you have been a frequent participant in hookup culture, you may find that you have some challenges transitioning to a long-term relationship in the future.
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