How often have you heard a friend complain that it’s difficult to find a meaningful relationship? All anyone is looking for nowadays is a hookup? Hookup culture has become deeply rooted in the dating landscape and can usually be a point of contention for many people looking to meet someone else. For a real-world example, think of Tinder; how many profiles have you seen with the caption “no hookups?” When it comes to dating, there’s now a sense of dread for some people that whoever is on the other end of conversation is simply looking for a one-night stand. Not to say that there is anything wrong with not wanting something more meaningful as it is 2022, and the times, as well as romances, have changed. However, like many forms of pleasure, there are healthy sides to this culture and other sides that could be harmful.

There is a good amount of loneliness that comes from hookup culture though. Two people can engage with each other with no strings attached, but hooking up isn’t something that is emotion-free. There are a lot of feelings that go into those actions, and it is easy to get attached to other people. It’s what makes us human. And in the same vein, hookup culture makes it harder to find a good relationship. When you have the option to, as your grandma might say, “get the milk without buying the cow,” people don't feel the need to be with others outside of pleasing their own appetites. 

For someone who is non-monogamous and has more than one partner at the moment, I think that the idea of hookup culture has made me be more comfortable with myself and facilitated me being open and communicative with the people I’m interested in. Hookup culture has its pros, but emotional connection is also really important.

Like any healthy relationship, romantic or not, transparency is the most important part of it. If you participate, make sure both parties are on the same page about expectations, commitment, etc. If you aren’t clear about your intentions, then one or both people are bound to be hurt in the end. If you are looking for a long-term relationship, it’s best to find someone who is looking for the same thing. You’re setting yourself up for heartbreak when one-night stands are just that: one night. 

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