As society has continued to evolve, so have attitudes towards sexuality and relationships. Casual sex, which has been defined as sexual activity that occurs outside the boundaries of a committed relationship (Garcia et al., 2012), has become increasingly common and widely accepted. In recent decades, this shift has fueled substantial research into the motivations for engaging in casual sex, the potential psychological effects, and the effects on social norms and individual well-being (Dhanoa, 2020).
Many factors have contributed to the rise of casual sex. The growth of online dating, changing social values and increased access to contraception have made casual sex more accessible and, in many communities, more acceptable. Additionally, research has shown that sociosexuality—individuals’ openness to casual sex and non-committal relationships—has become more common, especially among younger generations (Garcia et al., 2012). It has been estimated that between 60 and 80 percent of North American college students have had some type of casual sexual experience (Garcia et al., 2012), and 40 percent of sexually active adolescents report a preference for hookups over exclusive relationships (Lyons et al., 2015).
One notable factor that has contributed to the rise of casual sex is the role of technology. Dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and Grindr have made it easy to find like-minded people looking for similar no-strings-attached sexual experiences. People can even filter potential matches by relationship type, including those looking for “short-term fun.” The ease of meeting new people online has been instrumental in the normalization of casual sex, especially among millennials and Generation Z, who grew up with these technologies readily available during such formative years (Garcia et al., 2012).
Proponents of casual sex argue that participation represents a form of sexual liberation where individuals can explore their desires without societal pressure to conform to traditional monogamous relationships. Research shows that people who have casual sex for self-affirmation, exploration, and pleasure tend to report positive emotional experiences. A 2014 study by Vrangalova and Ong found that, for people with higher levels of sociosexuality, casual sex did not necessarily lead to adverse mental health outcomes. Instead, it promoted feelings of empowerment and autonomy when purposefully pursued.
Casual sex can certainly have positive emotional effects when aligned with individual preferences and sociosexual orientation. Research has shown that some people derive pleasure, validation and increased self-esteem from casual sexual encounters. Some individuals who reported casual sexual experiences often associated them with higher levels of sexual satisfaction and reduced feelings of loneliness (Wesche et al., 2022). For people who have chosen to prioritize personal or professional goals over committed relationships, casual sex can provide a satisfying way to experience intimacy and connection on their own terms.
The acceptance of casual sex has also contributed positively to reducing the stigma surrounding various expressions of sexuality. As social acceptance of casual sex increases, people feel more comfortable discussing and exploring sexual experiences without fear of judgment. Casual sex has become part of a wider movement to embrace sexual diversity, helping to promote a more open and accepting culture that supports individual choice (Wesche et al., 2022). This acceptance and openness has also framed sex as a means of pleasure, beyond traditional ideas of sex as solely a means of reproduction (Garcia et al., 2012).
While casual sex can be rewarding for some, research shows it can also have adverse effects, particularly for people with lower prosociality. Studies have shown that people who feel less comfortable with non-committal sexual interactions may experience regret, shame, and decreased self-esteem after casual sex. For example, a 2017 study by Napper and colleagues found that casual sex among college students was associated with increased psychological distress, particularly for those who engaged in these encounters to fit in or because of peer pressure. The emotional effects of casual sex are highly individualized and can vary greatly depending on an individual’s motivations and psychological predispositions.
Critics of casual sex often cite increased health risks, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies, as potential downsides. While methods of contraception and STD prevention are widely available, not all individuals take appropriate precautions, increasing the potential for adverse health outcomes. Furthermore, access to contraception is not evenly distributed in disadvantaged communities, which increases health risks in already vulnerable populations (Dehlendorf et al., 2011). Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC; 2022) found that despite greater sexual health education, rates of STIs remain high, particularly among young adults. Casual sex, when not practiced safely, can lead to a host of health-related issues that carry physical, emotional and financial burdens.
Casual sex can also affect relationship expectations in ways that can hinder long-term satisfaction. Some researchers suggest that regularly engaging in casual sex may lead people to prioritize physical intimacy over emotional depth in future relationships. Research has shown that those who frequently engage in casual sex may experience difficulties forming attachments and may have higher levels of relationship anxiety (Wesche et al., 2022). This can create a paradox: while casual sex offers freedom from commitment, it can complicate the path to developing lasting, meaningful relationships for some.
Finding a balance: Is there a middle ground?
The question of whether casual sex is “good” or “bad” for individuals and society is a complex one. The diversity in experiences and motivations suggests that the effects of casual sex are far from uniform. The key to positive results seems to be aligning sexual behaviors with personal values and preferences. Those high in sociosexuality may find casual sex an empowering part of their lives, while those with lower sociosexuality may benefit from seeking relationships that prioritize emotional depth. Education and open discussions about casual sex play a critical role in promoting safe and satisfying experiences, and education about both the psychological and physical aspects of casual sex can equip people with the tools they need to make informed choices.
Casual sex in modern society embodies both the liberation of individual choice and the complexity of human emotion and health. While casual sex offers freedom and autonomy, it also poses unique challenges, such as health risks and potential psychological disadvantages. By understanding these nuanced perspectives and factors influencing the popularity of casual sex, we can foster more informed, respectful discussions about sexuality. As society continues to grapple with evolving norms around sex and relationships, recognizing that individual experiences are varied and complex can help us build a more inclusive and understanding culture. Ultimately, the goal is to support each person’s journey to find the sexual and relational experiences that best align with their values and well-being.
Anonymous
BAH Psychology 2025
Queen’s University
References
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Wesche, R., Claxton, SE, & Waterman, EA (2022). Emotional effects of casual sexual relationships and experiences: A systematic review. Journal of Sex Research, 58(8),
