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<p>The decline in sexual interest among young adults is a growing phenomenon with profound implications for their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. This qualitative study aims to: (a) explore the emotional experiences of sexual interest among young adults and (b) analyze the relationship between sexual interest and mental health among young adults. This study involved 868 participants aged 18–30 years-old (<i>M</i> = 24.9; <i>SD</i> = 2.56) from Portuguese, Brazilian, and English nationalities. These participants shared their experiences and perspectives in-depth semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed through content analysis. For the first objective, eight themes emerged: Less in-person interaction (86.5%); Difficulties in online dating (81.1%); Unsatisfactory previous sexual experiences (78.8%); Early initiation of sexual life (73.6%); Low body image (69.2%); High social media usage (65.6%); Online pornography consumption (59.2%); and Online work fatigue (54.3%). For the second objective, four themes highlighted: Stress (93.1%); Depressive symptoms (89.2%); Social anxiety (80.8%); and Dependent behaviors (72.2%). Portuguese participants emphasized difficulties related to reduced face-to-face interactions and stress, while Brazilian participants emphasized online-related challenges and social anxiety. In contrast, English participants highlighted the impact of past experiences and social anxiety, reflecting distinct cultural influences on both sexual desire and mental health. These findings underscore the urgent need to address mental health challenges and shifting social norms to foster healthier relationships and improved well-being in this population.</p>

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Rethinking Sexual Interest Among Young Adults: A Qualitative Study

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年9月25日

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  • Sofia von Humboldt,
  • Gail Low,
  • Isabel Leal

摘要

The decline in sexual interest among young adults is a growing phenomenon with profound implications for their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. This qualitative study aims to: (a) explore the emotional experiences of sexual interest among young adults and (b) analyze the relationship between sexual interest and mental health among young adults. This study involved 868 participants aged 18–30 years-old (M = 24.9; SD = 2.56) from Portuguese, Brazilian, and English nationalities. These participants shared their experiences and perspectives in-depth semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed through content analysis. For the first objective, eight themes emerged: Less in-person interaction (86.5%); Difficulties in online dating (81.1%); Unsatisfactory previous sexual experiences (78.8%); Early initiation of sexual life (73.6%); Low body image (69.2%); High social media usage (65.6%); Online pornography consumption (59.2%); and Online work fatigue (54.3%). For the second objective, four themes highlighted: Stress (93.1%); Depressive symptoms (89.2%); Social anxiety (80.8%); and Dependent behaviors (72.2%). Portuguese participants emphasized difficulties related to reduced face-to-face interactions and stress, while Brazilian participants emphasized online-related challenges and social anxiety. In contrast, English participants highlighted the impact of past experiences and social anxiety, reflecting distinct cultural influences on both sexual desire and mental health. These findings underscore the urgent need to address mental health challenges and shifting social norms to foster healthier relationships and improved well-being in this population.