The Current Collegiate Hookup Culture

"Aditi Pauls' study of "hookup culture" transcends mainstream academic critiques of dating behaviors and practices among college students. Grounded in a nationally representative sample of college students, this study is one of the most thoughtful, if not provocative, studies of "hookup culture." Paul illuminates uncharted areas of analysis that problematizes past assumptions and research findings on hookup culture. Moreover, this excellent text avoids moralistic pitfalls that characterize similar texts while also pointing out potential problems derived from this practice. A must read for anyone teaching in higher education."

-- Christopher Connor, University of Missouri

“Dr. Paul has given us a careful and fascinating study of the collegiate hookup culture with great insights into the historical roots of casual sexual encounters.”

-- Maryann Karinch, author of Mature Sexual Intimacy

"This is a timely well-written book addressing the emerging dynamics of sexual hook-up culture and relationships initiated via mediated platforms and the strategic nature of why people engage in hookups. Also highlighting the changing norms of traditional gender-based relationships and addressing the emerging understanding of relational behaviors across the globe, this is a great resource for advanced students and scholars interested in romantic relationships."

-- Jennifer A. Samp, University of Georgia

"Dr. Paul provides a much-needed modernization of our understanding of hookup culture on campuses. This book explores both the social context of hooking up, motivations for doing so, and the psychological impact of hooking up on young adults. In particular, Dr. Paul’s research on the role of dating apps for racial minority and sexual minority students illustrates how these technologies connect people who might otherwise feel isolated, providing benefits as well as risks."

-- Richard A. Sprott, California State University, East