There are plenty of guides and tips on navigating college, ranging from creating study habits to scoring an internship. But where is the manual that explains the “hookup culture” that is so common on most U.S. college campuses?
What qualifies as “hookup culture” can vary from person to person, but is generally defined as a culture that accepts and also encourages casual sex. Hookup culture prioritizes physical pleasure and does not necessarily equate to dating since emotional bonding and long-term commitments are not required. It’s not an openly-discussed topic, but every college student should prepare to encounter it. With information and the help of adjunct professor Rick L. Gunsallus, who has a doctorate in clinical sexology, we’ve listed some things that students should keep in mind:
First things first
It’s been reiterated for ages, but whenever you are planning on having sexual intercourse with someone new, it isalways necessary to use protection. Even if you are using another form of birth control like the pill and spermicides, you should still use a condom and/ordental dam to protect from STDs. It’s so necessary that it has become a common practice for institutions and organizations to give out free condoms especially if you don’t have access to a convenience store. For instance, the locker rooms at the RecWell gym generally have free condoms available. Also, remember that If your partner declines to use protection, you’re in no way obligated to have unprotected sex with them.
Meeting on social media
It’s simple enough to meet new people on a college campus, especially if you’re a resident student. But within the last few years, casual dating has gone digital. As such, dating apps like Tinder have also affected hookup culture by making it much easier to meet new people.
Tinder can be intimidating to use at first, but if you do match with someone of interest, it’s best to get to know them through messaging to make sure you’re comfortable with them as a person. If you want to take it further by meeting with them, it’s advised that you meet the person in a public, populated and well-lit place; especially upon first encounters.
Keep your feelings in check
While hookups are known for being brief and detached, there should be mutual respect between partners. Being able to communicate is the key to a healthy relationship in any capacity. It’s also worth noting that you should brace yourself emotionally. In many cases, it’s natural to become attached to a sexual partner. It’s never fun being in a one-sided relationship, and unrequited love is rarely ever satisfying. So, if you ever find yourself in that situation, it’s best to move on.
Know your options
But what if you don’t want to get involved in hookup culture? There may be some peer pressure within college campuses to engage in it, but just remember that you’re an adult and can make your own choices. Everyone has the right to say no, and if you feel uncomfortable with a situation or relationship, you have the right to end it or not even pursue it at all.
We all have different opinions and feelings on the subject of hookup culture, but college is the ideal time to explore and to get to know yourself. So have fun, but be mindful of your decisions and your personal safety.
