By Mallory Braden - February 13, Dating and relationships are often seen as a crucial part of the college experience. With the growing popularity of dating apps and other online resources among Generation Z and college students in particular, a new conversation emerges about what is really considered a real relationship in college and how we can distinguish that from other situations. So what makes the college dating culture so different from anything else?
For many, college is a time of self-discovery and a newfound sense of freedom as opposed to high school. This is true for many scenarios, but especially in regard to our dating lives. The talking stage and casual hookups are seen as easier alternatives to dating, especially if you are not all that sure you are ready for a serious relationship with someone or just in general.
Hookup culture, which usually involves casual sex with someone who you are not in a romantic relationship with, has become increasingly popular among college students. This might be a person you like, but not always in a romantic way, just in a mutually agreed and explorative way. The American Psychological Association APA states that around 60 to 80 percent of college students report taking part in this kind of activity or relationship, showing just how popular this is among students in universities.
Alternative to hookups, the talking stage is seen today as an essential staple of the dating process and the process of getting to know someone. Typically, this stage is a result of a mutually expressed interest between individuals and an opportunity to grow closer without the restriction of a label.
This includes hanging out or talking either in person or online through text or FaceTime to determine whether or not you want to move forward with a person. Opportunities for both of these dating patterns have become easier with the rise of popular dating apps such as Tinder, Bumble and Hinge. Many young people, especially students, emphasize that when it comes to hookup culture, they are not as quick to use proper protection as one might think. According to the APA, one study showed that less than 50 percent of college students were worried about risks that might come with hooking up, such as sexually transmitted infections [APA].
