Gen Z are in a sex RECESSION, study reveals - with a fifth reporting they've never had a partner

See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred Source Published: 09:00 EDT, 22 September 2026 | Updated: 09:23 EDT, 22 September 2026 They are the generation that grew up with Tinder, Bumble and social media at their fingertips.But according to a new study, Gen Z are in a sex recession.Researchers surveyed 2,373 adults aged 18–29 in a bid to understand how young adults are navigating sex, dating and relationships today.They found that this age group, which includes Gen Z, reported low levels of sexual activity – despite a moderate to high sex drive.The survey revealed 29 per cent had zero partners in the last three months and 19 per cent had never had a partner at all.Instead, many said their intimacy needs are already being met – through social media and AI companions.A new survey has revealed Gen Z are in a sex recession. Researchers found 19 per cent had never had a partner Many Gen Z–ers said their intimacy needs are already being met, through social media and AI companionsThe study, carried out by the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, revealed that despite being in a sex recession, many young adults did not seem particularly distressed by it.'Only a minority report dissatisfaction with their sex lives, suggesting that sex may be less central to overall wellbeing than many assume,' the team said.'Only 18 per cent are unsatisfied with their sex life.'The researchers said the issue appears to be opportunity, not desire. 'Dating exhaustion, fear of rejection, financial strain and changing social norms may be making connection more difficult,' they said.'For 43 per cent, financial concerns made it harder for them to date or maintain romantic relationships and, for 37 per cent, financial stress has negatively affected their sex life.'Young adults are increasingly meeting intimacy needs in other ways, they explained.'Digital connection, online sexual experiences, friendships, and other forms of fulfilment may be reducing the pressure to pursue traditional romantic relationships,' they added.Around a quarter said online interactions – such as messaging, social media and AI companions – fulfil some of their intimacy needs. A similar amount said spending time on screens reduces their motivation to pursue real–life sexual connections. A previous study found that nearly four in 10 people aged 18–30 reported having no sexual partners during the last 12 months, up from 22 per cent a decade earlier Join the discussionIs modern technology making young people happier or lonelier when it comes to love and relationships?What's your view?Despite having less sex, the sex they have is not necessarily safer, the researchers warned.Contraceptive use among Gen Z is often inconsistent, they said, and many have never been tested for STIs.Only 35 per cent reported typically using condoms and approximately a third said they had never been tested for an STI.According to a separate study, Gen Z is also shunning alcohol in favour of a cup of tea.Conducted by Twinings, the survey found that almost half (47 per cent) of Gen Z say tea has replaced alcohol as the thing they reach for before big moments.In contrast, just 25 per cent of Baby Boomers say the same thing.