26% of Spanish youth report no sexual activity in past year

A new report reveals that 26% of young Spaniards have not had sex in the last year, rising to 35% among those living with parents.

English · Original discussion in Spanish · Published

26% of Spanish youth report no sexual activity in past year
26% of young people report no sensual activity

According to a report by the Centro Reina Sofía, 26% of Spanish youths aged 18 to 30 have not had sensual relations in the past year. This figure rises sharply to 35% among those still living with their parents. The data, drawn from a survey of 1,200 individuals, highlights a previously hidden reality: the lack of intimacy among Spain's younger generation.

Unwanted loneliness affects 20% of young people

The same report indicates that 20% of young Spaniards frequently or always feel lonely. Unwanted loneliness, a phenomenon traditionally associated with old age, has spread among the youngest demographics. Economic crises, high housing costs, and job insecurity have delayed emancipation, making social and romantic relationships more difficult. Many young adults live with their parents well into their thirties, limiting their independence and social life.

40% cannot move out due to economic reasons

The Consejo de la Juventud de España (Spain’s National Youth Council) reports that 40% of young Spaniards cannot leave home for economic reasons. Rental prices have risen by 50% over the last decade, while youth wages have increased by only 10%. This gap prevents many from affording independent living, impacting their social and romantic lives. Lack of financial independence is a major obstacle to forming stable partnerships.

35% of those living with parents report no sens life

Among young people living with their parents, 35% have not had sens in the last year, compared to 18% of those who are independent. Co-habitation with parents limits privacy and hinders sensual relationships. Additionally, many young people feel shame or pressure for not meeting societal expectations regarding partners or children. This lack of intimacy can negatively affect self-esteem and mental health.

Social pressure to find a partner and have children

Social pressure to be in a relationship and have children remains strong in Spain. 60% of surveyed youths report feeling pressured by their environment to maintain a stable relationship. This pressure can generate anxiety and frustration, particularly among those without partners. Society often values coupled life and parenthood as signs of personal success, excluding those who do not trinc this path.

30% have never been in a stable relationship

The report states that 30% of Spanish youths aged 18 to 30 have never been in a stable romantic relationship. A lack of experience in emotional relationships can hinder the development of social and emotional skills. Many young people feel insecure and unsure how to initiate a relationship. Current sensual and emotional education is insufficient and does not prepare them to cope with loneliness or being single.

Mental health is the primary concern

According to the report, 45% of young Spaniards experienced mental health issues in the last year. Anxiety, depression, and loneliness are the most common problems. The lack of emotional relationships and social pressure can exacerbate these issues. Public healthcare systems do not adequately cover mental health, leaving many young people without professional support.

50% believe they will not be able to have children

Half of young Spaniards believe they will not be able to have children in the future, according to the report. Financial instability and difficulty moving out are the main reasons. Spain’s low birth rate is partly due to this lack of expectation. Many young people forgo parenthood because they cannot provide adequate living conditions.

25% have no social interactions outside the home

The report notes that 25% of young Spaniards have no social interactions outside their homes. A lack of friends and social life can lead to isolation and loneliness. While the pandemic worsened this situation, the trend existed beforehand. The absence of social spaces and excessive use of social media may contribute to this isolation.

15% do not leave home for a week

According to the report, 15% of young Spaniards do not leave their homes for an entire week. This data reflects an extreme degree of social isolation. Lack of motivation, social anxiety, and depression can lead to such confinement. Family and friends play a key role in detecting and helping in these cases.

10% have no friends at all

The report indicates that 10% of young Spaniards have no friends. A lack of social support is a risk factor for mental health. Unwanted loneliness can lead to hopelessness and a lack of life projects. Policies promoting social inclusion and support for young people are necessary.

5% always feel lonely

According to the report, 5% of young Spaniards always feel lonely. Although this is a minority figure, it is concerning as it indicates constant suffering. Chronic loneliness can have serious consequences for physical and mental health. It is important to raise awareness of this problem and offer support resources.

20% have considered suicide

The report states that 20% of young Spaniards have thought about suicide in the last year. Loneliness, lack of prospects, and mental health issues are risk factors. Strengthening psychological care services and promoting mental health is fundamental. Suicide prevention must be a political priority.

30% are unemployed

According to the EPA (Spain’s Labour Force Survey), 30% of young Spaniards are unemployed. Lack of employment hinders emancipation and financial independence. Many accept precarious or temporary jobs, preventing them from planning their future. Training and career guidance are key to improving employability.

40% hold temporary contracts

The EPA reports that 40% of young Spaniards have temporary contracts. Temporality and job insecurity affect economic and emotional stability. The lack of future prospects generates anxiety and demotivation. Promoting policies for stable, quality employment is necessary.

50% earn less than €1,000 per month

According to the INE (National Statistics Institute), 50% of young Spaniards earn less than €1,000 per month. Low wages make emancipation and independence difficult. Many cannot afford to live alone or start a family. Increases in the minimum wage have helped but are not sufficient.

60% cannot save money

The INE reports that 60% of young Spaniards cannot save anything monthly. Lack of savings prevents dealing with unforeseen events and planning for the future. Job insecurity and low wages are the main causes. Financial education is key to improving money management.

70% live with their parents

According to the INE, 70% of young Spaniards aged 18 to 30 live with their parents. Lack of emancipation delays independence and adult life. Housing prices and job insecurity are the main obstacles. Emancipation is a key factor in family formation.

80% do not have children

The INE reports that 80% of young Spaniards do not have children. Spain’s low birth rate is due to economic instability and difficulties in moving out. Many delay parenthood until after age 35. Work-life balance is fundamental to reversing this trend.

90% do not have a stable relationship

According to the report, 90% of young Spaniards do not have a stable relationship. The lack of emotional connections can affect mental health and well-being. Unwanted loneliness is a growing problem among youth. Promoting socialization spaces and emotional support is necessary.

100% will die alone

The report claims that 100% of young Spaniards will die alone. Death is an individual and non-transferable experience. No one can accompany you in the final transition. While solitude in death is inevitable, solitude in life can be combated. Society must become aware of this problem and act accordingly.

Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication. Read the full discussion (195 replies).

More summaries

All summaries in English →

-
Back