Attitudes toward casual sex tend to shift as life circumstancesandrelationship statuseschange.
Depending on the context, it’s celebrated, relished, derided, envied, andstigmatized.
Others take the idea a bit more…casually.
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But it has the potential to get emotionally complicated.
What Is Casual Sex?
Casual sex means different things to different people.
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Some people formcasual sex relationshipsperiodically.
What Constitutes Casual Sex?
Casual sex doesn’t necessarily always include intercourse.
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Some enjoy casual sex because it lacks the expectations, accountability, and pressures of a traditional romantic relationship.
Other portrayals end in disappointment, regret, and heartbreak.
For some, sex outside ofcommitmentis consideredimmoral.
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Sometimes, these encounters may constitutecheatingif one or both of the participants are in another relationship.
Clearly, stereotypes,assumptions, ethics, experience, and personal beliefs are all at play.
In some traditions, sex is considered only appropriate for reproductive purposes, and/or sex for pleasure is taboo.
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Cautionary, often sexist, tales have traditionally been aimed at girls and women.
These were meant to deter girls from “compromising their virtue.”
Increasingly, noncommitted rendezvous are viewed as a rite of passage or simply as an enticing sexual outlet.
Each person should consider any underlyingshameor other negative emotions they might feel or be exposed to.
This is particularly true if safe sex practices are not followed.
Despite telling yourself that it’s just sex, just for fun, you might eventually feel more.
So, it’s vital to assess expectations honestly.
Others relish the solely physical thrills of a booty call.
Acting outside conservative beliefs on casual sex is liberating for some but disappointing or even traumatic for others.
Who Is Having Casual Sex?
Casual sex is particularly common in adolescents/young adults and adults outside of committed relationships.
In one study, 40% of respondents in their early 20s reported a recent casual sex encounter.
Other research found that over 50% of 18-to-24-year-olds had engaged in the activity.
Among sexually active teens, almost 40% reported hookups rather than exclusive relationships.
Is Casual Sex Right for You?
Consent Is Vital
Taking properconsentand safe sex precautions is also imperative.
For example, anonymous sex might feel hot or lonelyor dirty, in a bad way.
It’s vital to think about consent, too.
You may want to explore your ownsexualityand desires and might feel more comfortable doing so in a casual setting.
If you simply enjoy hookups (or want to), then go ahead and enjoy.
If not, you might not be in the right frame of mind to enjoy the experience.
There’s no right or wrong here, just what kind of sexual life you want to live.
2013;42(8):1425-1441. doi:10.1007/s10508-013-0106-0
