Nearly 1 in 4 Americans Want A Break from Physical Intimacy, Survey Finds

More Than Half Of Single People Would Rather ‘Fall In Love With Life’ Than With Another Person

NEW YORK — New research reveals that many Americans are rethinking their relationship with physical intimacy, with 24% expressing a desire to take a break from sexual activity.

A survey of 2,000 adults, conducted by Talker Research, found that some individuals are stepping back from sexual activity for reasons ranging from personal growth to emotional connection. Respondents cited motivations such as “wanting to learn other forms of intimacy,” needing “time for the body and mind to catch up,” or prioritizing “emotional closeness over physical connection.”

The findings suggest shifting values around love and relationships. Nearly a third (30%) of respondents said they believe “romance is dead,” expressing concerns that genuine love and romantic gestures have lost their place in modern life.

These changing attitudes are influencing behavior. More than half of respondents (52%) said they had previously taken an extended break from sexual intimacy, defined in the study as lasting six months on average.

For many, these breaks had positive effects: 53% said the time away helped them better appreciate sex, while only 11% felt it had a negative impact.

“Slowing down and taking a break from sex can be a healthy and beneficial approach in various situations—whether for personal growth, relationship challenges, or self-reflection,” said Luka Matutinovic, chief marketing officer at LELO, which commissioned the study. “It can offer a chance to reassess desires and needs, reduce pressure, and promote deeper honesty between partners.”

Embracing Single Life

The survey also found a growing comfort with being single. Among those not in a relationship, 69% said they are content with their current status, and only 21% are actively seeking a partner.

Many respondents noted they were “very comfortable with [my] life,” “waiting for the right one,” or simply “satisfied with [my] single life.” More than half (55%) said they would rather fall in love with life than with another person, and 47% said romantic relationships focus too heavily on future expectations rather than present experiences.

Half (49%) of participants reported past relationships that were “ruined” by societal expectations, and 59% of singles said a relationship is not something they need right now.

Redefining Intimacy

Americans increasingly view intimacy as extending far beyond sexual activity. On average, respondents believed only 37% of intimacy is physical, while 57% comes from personal understanding and emotional connection.

Three-quarters (76%) said they express intimacy in non-sexual ways. Common expressions include holding hands, cuddling, verbal affirmations, sharing meals, spiritual conversations, and thoughtful gestures like buying gifts or brushing a partner’s hair.

Four times as many respondents said they value emotional intimacy over physical intimacy in a relationship. Despite the focus on emotional connection, a majority (54%) still believe physical intimacy plays a crucial role in strengthening romantic bonds.

While 47% said it can be healthy for couples to take a break from sexual activity, 44% of people in relationships admitted their partnership likely wouldn’t last a full year without it.

On average, Americans said that a “healthy sex life” involves intimacy three times a week. Respondents reported that they could go about five months without kissing or cuddling, and six months without sex.

“Sex and intimacy are not the same—but when balanced well, they can enhance each other,” Matutinovic added. “Taking breaks, exploring new approaches, or focusing on emotional connection can ultimately improve physical intimacy and overall relationship satisfaction.”