McNeel, Taylor: Sexual Health

            In recent studies and writing, the topic of college campus hookups has become popular.  Between 2000 and 2006, only a few articles discussed this hookup culture.  However, from 2007-2013, 84 scholarly articles were published (Parry).  Parry’s article, Study Casts Skeptical Light on Campus ‘Hookup Culture’, discusses the different outlooks on hooking up.  Hooking up is an ambiguous word to begin with, because many interpret what it means.  Hooking up ranges from making out to having sex in the context of Parry’s article.

Parry discusses Martin A. Monto’s study.  Monto writes, “young people are less likely to be married or to have a regular sexual partner” (Parry).  Hooking up with another person does not bond them into a relationship.  If people are hooking up with many others, it may damage their motivation to find a spouse or even to maintain steady relationships.  Other opinions presented in Parry's article argue that this hookup phenomenon is no more present today than it was in past generations.  Students are also less likely to have sex more than once per week than in the past (Parry).  The hookup culture is present on campuses, but not as much as some think.

Because I hold the belief that sex is for marriage and having only been at college for six weeks – I am no expert on this topic.  I have seen some aspects of the hookup culture Parry discusses.  Those who are known for hooking up on campus tend to be avoided by others.  There are many stereotypes associated with hooking up such as having loose morals and being uncommitted.  Beyond that, hooking up takes time away from studies and involvement in campus activities.  Parry describes the different views on hookups.  Whether they are more common today or not, hookups can be detrimental to studies, future relationships, and personal development.