In his article “Study Casts
Skeptical Light on Campus ‘Hookup Culture’,” Marc Perry presents research done
on the sexual behavior of college students. He briefly covers a study done by
sociology professor Martin A. Monto which indicates sexual activity has not
increased over the last few decades, contrary to popular belief. While the
sexual activity of students probably hasn’t changed much, I believe the
attitude towards “hooking up” has.
To start with, students today are more
open to discussing their sexual activities in common place conversations. The
topic of sex is not as taboo as it was perhaps thirty or so years ago. Not only
are male students discussing this topic, but females as well. As the acceptance
of women’s sexuality increases, women are becoming more vocal about their
sexual behavior, losing their fear of condemnation. The prevalence of sex in
conversation may appear to some as an increase of “hooking up” among students
when, in reality, it is just talked about more.
In addition, the idea of “hooking up” is taken more lightly
than before. In the past, sex on the first date or any premarital sex was
scorned, but rising acceptance with each generation has lifted such acts into
a societal norm. This acceptance has produced an almost casual air to “hooking
up”, creating a “no big deal” attitude within a vast majority of younger
generations. The impression this attitude gives off to older generations is
that of looser morals.
The research covered by Mac Perry is more than likely
correct in indicating the sexual activity of college students has not
increased, but the acceptance of “hooking up” by younger generations has
increased.
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