"Celiba-Z": why Generation Z has less sex than millennials and what factors influence
Generation Z is having less sex than millennials, with only 13% engaging in sexual activity weekly compared to 37% of millennials, influenced by changing societal norms and digital interactions.
According to a 2025 international survey conducted by Lovehoney Group, Generation Z is experiencing significantly less sexual activity than millennials, with only 13% indicating they have sex at least once a week, compared to 37% of millennials. This decline is attributed to profound changes in how individuals connect, meet, and desire interactions, culminating in the phenomenon that some experts term 'Celiba-Z.' This shift does not indicate a rejection of sexuality but rather a reevaluation of inherited models of sexual relationships.
The declines in sexual activity among Generation Z are linked to reduced peer pressure and fewer drunken encounters, with many young people opting for relationships grounded in personal values rather than external validation. As highlighted by Elisabeth Neumann, a user research manager at Lovehoney Group, this generation appears to be more selective about their partners and the nature of their encounters. The results from the survey, which included responses from 8,000 participants across various European countries, suggest that socio-economic, emotional, and digital contexts significantly shape Generation Z's approach to their sexual lives.
This emerging trend can have broader implications for societal views on intimacy and relationships. As Generation Z reshapes sexual norms, understanding their motivations and preferences will be critical for industries connected to dating, health, and social communication. The evolution of their sexual behaviors may also reflect wider cultural shifts, prompting discussions about mental health, personal fulfillment, and the role of technology in interpersonal intimacy.