Gen Z women choose celibacy for self-discovery and growth

Some young women from Generation Z are choosing to abstain from sex and practice voluntary celibacy. This trend comes at a time when casual sex is easier to find than ever. A recent study shows that Gen Z engages in sexual activity about three times a month, compared to five times for older generations like Millennials and Gen X. Many Gen Z women feel that sex has lost its appeal. One such person, Lara, 27, from London, has not had sex in two years. She decided to focus on herself instead, claiming it has made her happier and more confident. Other young women echo her sentiment. Bella, 28, found relief when sex was restricted during the pandemic lockdown, and she co-founded an Instagram account called Ban Sex Now, which humorously critiques casual sex culture. Historically, the sexual revolution of the 1960s and pop culture in the 1990s promoted sexual liberation. Yet today’s women are confronting pressures that can make casual sex feel unfulfilling. Sex therapist Stephen Snyder notes a disconnect between what women are told about liberation and their actual experiences with casual sex, which often lack emotional depth. Some women, like Lydia, have found that pornography and modern sexual attitudes have not fostered satisfying experiences. Many report feeling unfulfilled after casual encounters and prefer deeper emotional connections. Interestingly, a grass-roots trend for celibacy appears to be growing, especially on dating apps where the desire for celibacy has surged significantly. On social media platforms like TikTok, the hashtag #boysober is gaining traction. Users, like Hope Woodward, document their journeys of abstaining from dating to gain clarity in their lives. This movement is inspiring many to shift their focus from romance to friendships and personal growth. For women practicing celibacy, the experience can be transformative. For instance, author Shon Faye noted that by removing the focus on sex, she could invest more energy into friendships. Celebrities like Julia Fox have also spoken about the benefits of celibacy, claiming it improves their overall well-being. Therapist Keeley Taverner sees this movement as a reclaiming of power in a culture that often values disposability. It allows women to prioritize genuine connections over physical encounters. For those seeking pleasure without sex, self-care and personal fulfillment have become key focuses.