Less Sex, More Substance: Gen Z Seeking Relatable Bonds Over Physical Relationships

A new study reveals American adolescents today want to see less sex and romance on screens. Instead, young viewers crave more depictions of platonic friendships reflecting their real-life experiences.

The 2022 Teens & Screens report by UCLA's Center for Scholars and Storytellers surveyed over 1,500 youths aged 10-24. It found a majority want more focus on non-romantic relationships and less expectation that male-female friends will inevitably fall in love.

Nearly half felt sex wasn't needed in most plots, while over a third wanted more asexual or aromantic characters. "Adolescents are seeking modeling in the art they consume," said the center's director, Dr. Yalda Uhls.

The findings align with research showing declining rates of sexual activity among Generation Z. A 2021 Centers for Disease Control study found only 30% of teens reported having sex, down from over 50% in prior decades.

Surveys by the University of Chicago and UCLA likewise found sharp drops in sexual partners and intercourse frequency for 18-25 year olds. Experts cite the isolation of COVID-19 as impacting youth attitudes.

"As a Gen Zer myself, I wasn't surprised," said report co-author Stephanie Rivas-Lara. "There's been wide-ranging discourse about the meaning of community after COVID."

Seeking Familiarity and Belonging Through Media

Rivas-Lara explained today's adolescents are turning to media for a sense of connection and familiarity amid "frightening headlines." However, many current portrayals don't reflect their real-world experiences.

The study noted characters rarely have close friendships without romantic expectations attached. "I don't like that every boy and girl friendship has to be romantic at some point,” one teen respondent wrote.

Over half of youth surveyed wanted more stories focused on uplifting themes of belonging. Relatable characters and narratives can provide reassurance during uncertain times.

Potential Impacts on Hollywood Trends

The findings suggest current media trends don't align with Gen Z preferences. HBO's Euphoria, which depicts graphic teen sex and drug use, became a hit with older audiences. But it doesn't reflect what most adolescents seek on screen.

Many provocative new shows seeming to "push boundaries" may actually push away younger viewers craving comfort. Narratives exploring non-sexual relationships and diverse orientations could better engage youth. "While it's true adolescents want less sex on TV and film, what they really want is more and different kinds of relationships reflected," said Dr. Uhls.

Networks targeting youth demographics may need to rethink content strategies. Series embracing sincerity over sensationalism could attract Gen Z viewers feeling alienated by "edginess." Marketers will also need to adjust promotional messaging. Titillating trailers misalign with young people wanting atmospheric realism. Nuanced campaigns focused on belonging and connection may resonate more.

Of course, art should not be dictated by data. But conscious media has an opportunity to thoughtfully engage youth perspectives. Listening to young audiences could catalyze creativity, not constraint. Many adolescents enjoy mature stories in moderation. But they don't want narrow assumptions about youth culture to limit on-screen diversity in relationships and experiences.

Rather than banning sex, Gen Z simply wants room for more rounded narratives. Media makers should see this as a call for balance, not censorship. Alarmist takes on the study could misconstrue its message. “Gen Z is prudish” makes provocative headlines but overlooks nuance.

Like all generations, Gen Z remains in flux. As its members age into adulthood, tastes and attitudes will inevitably evolve. But for now, young people are signaling a re-evaluation of intimacy and connection after a socially distanced formative period. How media responds could shape their expectations moving forward.

Rather than resisting change, Hollywood should view this as an opportunity for creativity. As culture progresses, entertainment has a duty to reflect new perspectives back to us.