The Hidden Costs of Hook-Up Culture: What No One Tells You

Hook-up culture is often cast as empowering, exciting, and sexually liberating. In reality, it’s a lot more complicated—especially for melanin-rich women navigating societal expectations, self-worth, and safety. What might seem like casual fun on the surface can mask deeper emotional, psychological, and even biological consequences.

At That Good Good, we believe in care that starts from within. And sometimes that means going beyond the physical to talk about the truth. Here's what science and real experiences reveal about the less-glamorous side of modern hook-up culture.

1. What Is Hook-Up Culture, Really?

"Hook-up culture" refers to casual sexual encounters without expectations of commitment. These can range from kissing to intercourse, often occurring on college campuses, at social events, or via dating apps. It’s often normalized as a rite of passage for Gen Z and Millennials.

But while the narrative paints it as empowering, the statistics tell another story.