Unpacking ‘praise kink’ that’s top of Gen Z’s fetish wish list
We're all different when it comes to what we like and don't like between the sheets.
However, it seems that much of Gen Z is in agreement over a particular fetish which really gets them going.
According to new research released by erotic audio platform Bloom Stories, which analysed responses from hundreds of listeners on which sounds turn them on the most while getting intimate, Gen Z have a major 'praise kink'.
The recent user survey saw that, for Gen Z respondents, 'praise' was high up on the list, as a whopping 83% of those aged 18-24 admitted that praise and 'sweet words' turn them on.
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Interestingly, this trumped dirty talk, which scored 80%.
Gen Z apparently seeks praise in the bedroom more than any other generation, as respondents aged 18-24 were much more likely to say that 'sweet words' are a turn-on than Gen X (53%) or Millennials (63%).
Praise was less of a turn-on for older generations, as dirty talk or explicit language came out on top for Gen X, with 92% reporting this sound as a turn-on - more than any other generation.
For Millennials, moaning is the biggest bedroom pleaser, with 94% of those aged 25-34 saying it's a sure-fire way to boost arousal.
And, in case you were interested, Baby Boomers (who are aged 65+) like their sex to be loud, with 96% sharing that vocalisations of pleasure are what really gets them in the mood.
Vivi, aged 22, opened up a little more about why she was so into praise when it comes to the bedroom.
"For me, the desire for 'praise’'in the bedroom is all about self-love and acceptance. When getting intimate, we make ourselves vulnerable; it can feel like giving a part of ourselves away. Hearing words of affirmation from a partner can quiet that self-doubt. It makes me feel empowered and able to fully appreciate myself in the moment. Praise breeds self-love, and self-love is sexy - it’s a turn-on, for sure!" she explained.
Okay, but what's the actual psychology behind this phenomenon?
Well, Lemon Meyer, sex expert and Editorial Manager at Bloom Stories, outlined: "Our kinks are often a reflection of the things we desire in other parts of our lives. It’s no surprise that for Gen Z, affirmation and acceptance are high on the list.
"As the first truly online generation, young people have been taught to measure their worth against the heavily filtered standards of 'perfection' broadcast on social media. Seeking praise from their intimate partners may well be a reflection of this need for reassurance and approval."
The sexpert continued: "However, despite ranking significantly higher for Gen Z, praise is still a kink shared by all generations.
"It might not be the most obvious turn-on, but for many there can be just as much excitement in trying to impress a partner and win their praise as there is in being bossed around and told what to do. Above all, words of affirmation can make us feel truly valued and more empowered in the bedroom.
"And what’s sexier than that?"
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Life, Explained, Gen Z
Rhiannon Ingle