Love & Sex

Love and sex have consistently played a significant part throughout the human experience, arising in many forms within different people and cultures. While this topic is somewhat universal, there are a multitude of ways in which people can experience and identify themselves both sexually and romantically. In modern times, movements to recognize and respect this diversity have subsequently gained widespread support.

Number of countries where same-sex marriage is legal
32
Share of heterosexual couples in U.S that met online
39%
Average sexual partners worldwide
9

Sexual behavior and practices

Attitudes towards sex around the world

Opinions on sex toys being taboo in the United States in 2022

Please wait

Further details: Visit original statistic Opinions on sex toys being taboo in the United States in 2022

Although sexual reproduction is part of the biological nature of humans, attitudes towards sex vary considerably among individuals. Due to differing views on what is socially acceptable around the world, sexual practices have also been heavily associated with an individuals’ personal beliefs and culture. As a result, attitudes towards sexual behavior such as having sex before marriage, masturbation, and using sex toys have fluctuated widely throughout different societies and periods of time.

Opinions on sex before marriage
Masturbation in France
Sexting in the U.S.

Sexuality

Trends toward acceptance continue

Do you think marriages between same-sex couples should be recognized by law as valid?

Please wait

Further details: Visit original statistic Do you think marriages between same-sex couples should be recognized by law as valid?

Historically, there has been little acceptance or recognition of same-sex love and gender non-conformity around the world. In the last decade or so, however, there has been an influx of movements to advance LBGTQ rights in many communities, such as through the legalization of same-sex marriage. Consequently, some LGBTQ people are experiencing increasing freedom to express their diversity while others continue to struggle with discrimination, abuse, and legal repercussions.

Americans who identify as LGBT
Approval of gay or lesbian relations
Countries that criminalize homosexuality

Dating in the 2020s

More couples meeting online

Percentage of online users in the United States who have or know someone who has met a romantic partner on a dating website or app as of January 2019

Please wait

Further details: Visit original statistic Percentage of online users in the United States who have or know someone who has met a romantic partner on a dating website or app as of January 2019

Long-term partners can meet in a variety of different ways, such as through family or friends, at a social occasion, or via the workplace. In recent years, however, single individuals have increasingly begun to turn to the internet to meet potential partners. In the United States, using dating sites or apps has become a common way for people to connect with those around them.

Most popular dating apps
Common reasons to use dating apps
Negative experiences from dating apps

State of the industry

  • Weddings and marriages worldwide
  • LGBTIQ+ life in Australia
  • Weddings and Marriage in the U.S.
  • Love and sex in Japan
  • Love and sex in South Korea
  • Sexuality in France
  • LGBTQ+ worldwide
  • Weddings in South Korea

Industry Definition

This category at Statista includes a figures, statistics, surveys and data on relationships, sexuality and sexual orientation, first loves, monogamy and polygamy, as well as faithful partners and cheaters. Additionally, it also provides you with the latest general benchmark figures on love and sex.

Contact

Get in touch with us. We are happy to help.
Statista Locations
Contact Meredith Alda
Meredith Alda
Sales Manager– Contact (United States)

Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm (EST)

Contact Yolanda Mega
Yolanda Mega
Operations Manager– Contact (Asia)

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm (SGT)

Contact Kisara Mizuno
Kisara Mizuno
Senior Business Development Manager– Contact (Asia)

Mon - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm (JST)

Contact Lodovica Biagi
Lodovica Biagi
Director of Operations– Contact (Europe)

Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm (GMT)

Contact Carolina Dulin
Carolina Dulin
Group Director - LATAM– Contact (Latin America)

Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm (EST)