Young Australians are having less sex, entering fewer relationships, and seeking more meaningful connections, but an emerging bedroom trend has experts shocked: some people are scrolling on their phones during sex.
Phubbing Extends to the Bedroom
Speaking on The Morning Show on Tuesday, sexologist Isiah McKimmie pointed to a survey of American college students that found individuals using their phones during intimate moments. “I think we should all be shocked by this,” McKimmie said. “It raises real questions for us about how we stay connected and stay present in an increasingly digital world.”
This behavior is an extension of “phubbing”—ignoring a partner in favor of a phone—which experts say is increasingly affecting romantic relationships. McKimmie noted that while phones are creeping further into the bedroom, younger generations are also moving away from the casual dating culture of previous decades.
Gen Z Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity
“We’re not going out to pubs and having a few drinks and then connecting with people the way we used to,” McKimmie said. “We’re looking for more meaningful connections, and we’re connecting on dating apps, which kind of slows things down and takes a little bit longer.” According to McKimmie, Gen Z is having less sex, entering fewer relationships, and socialising less overall compared to previous generations.
Rise of Sleep Divorce
Meanwhile, established couples are embracing “sleep divorce”—choosing separate beds or bedrooms to improve relationship quality. “Couples are literally changing the way they sleep together. They’re saying no to fighting over blankets, being kept awake by tossing and turning or being driven a bit mad by their partners snoring,” McKimmie said. Rather than signaling trouble, many couples report feeling happier due to better sleep.
Meaningful Holidays Gain Popularity
Another growing trend is the rise of “meaningful holidays,” where couples deliberately step away from distractions. “Couples are going away on these meaningful holidays. They’re going for secluded cabins, wellness retreats, rainforest getaways,” McKimmie said. “And they’re just focused on turning off their phones and connecting with each other.”
