The Advantages of Celibacy, According to a Sexual Health Expert

Published April 16, 2026

Celibacy is emerging as the latest trend in intimate relationships.

Although it may appear surprising in an era dominated by hookup culture, the ongoing sex recession—driven by many young individuals, some adopting a "boy sober" lifestyle—actually offers several positive aspects.

Christina Mancuso, a psychotherapist based in New York, shared with the Daily Mail that choosing celibacy can be linked to religious convictions, prioritizing career goals, or a desire to maintain control.

"They might date frequently but reserve physical intimacy for someone with whom they develop a deeper connection," she stated, emphasizing that celibacy is "not appropriate or appealing to everyone."

She pointed out that it is common and convenient to rely on sex for validation and immediate pleasure, but "developing the skill and confidence to appreciate our own value while allowing someone to truly get to know us is much more challenging."

When engaging in serious dating, Mancuso noted that having sex too early can obstruct the opportunity to genuinely understand someone. Avoiding sex, therefore, "creates space for the initial excitement and anticipation" that comes with getting to know one another.

"Once intimacy enters the picture, it distorts a person’s ability to see things clearly," she explained.

"The intense emotions involved, especially if introduced prematurely, can often cause the downfall of a connection that hasn’t fully formed yet."

She added that refraining from physical intimacy can provide singles with the time needed to "identify what they truly want and require."

"If someone is interested in you and you choose not to have sex with them, and they don’t follow up, you learn sooner rather than later who they really are and what they’re seeking," she elaborated.

"You’ll also feel much better knowing you didn’t give that person more than they deserved before figuring that out."