They say that sex sells. Does that phrase ring true anymore in terms of this generation’s viewing pleasure? A new study reveals that Gen Z wants to see less sex on screen.
Streaming services like Netflix have a lot of steamy content whether it’s TV shows like Shameless or a sexy film franchise like The After Series. But with so much sexy content on streaming services, it doesn’t mean it’s everyone’s cup of tea. According to The Hollywood Reporter, a new UCLA study found youth ages 10-27 actually want to see less sex scenes in movies and TV.
Out of the 1,500 surveyed, 51% wanted to see platonic relationships and friendships portrayed more. 47.5% said they felt sex “isn’t needed” for most of this entertainment content, and 44% find it “overused.” 44% also said they “would rather clean the toilet” than go on an online date.
NPR reported that the UCLA research team didn’t ask if the surveyed youth watched porn outside of traditional viewing habits. However, UCLA Center for Scholars and Storytellers founder Yalda Uhls had her own theory of why youth want less sexual content.
“It’s not that young people aren’t interested in TV, movies, and other media with sexual content, it’s that they want to see more and different types of relationships,” said Uhls. “We did not specifically ask about porn, so I couldn’t say for sure. But one theory could be that the prevalence of porn could be a reason why they feel they want to see less sexual content in traditional media.”
What Other Theories Could Be Why Gen Z Want Less Sexual Movies and Shows?
After experiencing isolation during the pandemic, the research team believed Gen Z wanted to see more feel-good friendships. The team says kids and teens still possess adventure and a sense of curiosity.
THR thinks one newly released movie on Netflix could have something to do with the study’s results. This survey came out after No Hard Feelings recently streamed on the platform. One controversial scene audiences spoke about was Jennifer Lawrence‘s beach nude scene. After three people steal Maddie’s clothes while she skinnydips in the ocean, she gets out to fight them all while nude. While it was one of No Hard Feelings’ best moments, social media users debated about whether that scene was necessary.
As Psychology Today says young adults are having sex less often and with fewer partners, times must be changing. That could mean content could eventually shift to please what audiences want — more friendships and less steaminess.
