The Pros and Cons of Hookup Culture

Hookup Culture: a term that millennial era college students associate with casual sexual activity. For many, “hooking up” with an acquaintance is appealing because it relieves the commitment that a relationship may require. Students already have enough hours devoted to homework, internships, and jobs. Hookups, when done safely, are fun and exciting! But, with every situation, there are pros and cons that need to be considered. 

 

No time? No problem! Hookups are a great way to have a fun and uncommitted sexual experience, without the looming “Now What?” Partners expect nothing from their night together, besides a good time. Make sure to confirm that your partner knows that this is only a hookup, and nothing else!

Flirting, making eyes at each other from across the room, and sneaking upstairs, and feeling your entire body buzz with that nervous/excitement- these are all aspects of a hookup that makes them fun and worthwhile. As long as all partners have given consent and enjoying themselves, hookups are fun! 

What better way to learn about what you like (and don’t care for) than through casual sex. There’s no pressure to fake anything- you are engaging in sexual activity because you want to. Take charge of the hookup, and try new things (as long as you are comfortable doing so, and taking protective measures). 

 

 

Since hookups generally are between individuals who don’t know each other, there is a lack of communication between partners. You may not have time to talk about your partner’s sexual background before you take part in sexual activity. This puts you at risk for STI/STD’s. Also, your partner may not understand how far you are willing to go (or are not willing to listen). Sexual pressure and/or unsafe sexual practices may result from these experiences. Always, always, always make sure you state your boundaries before! If you know you will be sexually active, make sure you are prepared (birth control, condoms, etc).

Yeah, there are no expectations with a hookup- but what if you really want a committed relationship? Continually having sex with a new partner, only to never see them again may lead to self-esteem issues. Before you decide to hookup with a person, evaluate your emotional needs. Hookups rarely lead to healthy and lasting relationships. 

 

Lets face it- a large majority of us scope out a future hookup at a party. And all of us know, where there is a party, there’s alcohol and drugs. This can lead to a common scenario-you spend the night with a partner, only to wake up and thinking “What happened last night?!” Excessive use of alcohol can lead to poor choices, so be wary of your level of intoxication. Alcohol and drugs can also be factors for the two previous cons. 

 

Do what is right for you and know yourself. You, and only you, know what your needs are, and what you want out of a hookup. If you are not comfortable with a one night stand, that is 100 % ok! Practice safe sex, and reach out if you need help.