“Sex is Easier to Get and Love is Harder to Find”: Costs and Rewards of Hooking Up Among First-Year College Students

Abstract

Guided by social exchange theory, we utilized thematic analysis to qualitatively identify themes related to the rewards and costs of hooking up from six focus groups of first-year students (N = 38). We then identified themes within their perceptions of alternatives to hooking up (i.e., alternatives) and expectations of what one desires in a hook up (i.e., comparisons). Overall, we found multiple reward-related themes of having fun, fulfilling sexual desires, gaining a sense of status or accomplishment, and the potential to develop a relationship. Cost themes included regrets/mistake, ambiguity, increased sexual risk, and loss of respect. Comparison and alternative levels focused on relationship standard, attractiveness standard, social script standard, romantic relationships, and friends with benefits. Gender differences and participants’ perceptions of the college environment were also explored throughout each theme. Implications for college sexual education programs and future research are discussed.