24-09-2025, 11:48 AM
Recent research, published in September 2025, suggests a positive genetic correlation between never having had sex and higher intelligence, along with other traits like higher education and income. While there are correlations between sexlessness and traits such as autism spectrum disorder, introversion, and lower drug/alcohol use, the relationship is complex, and correlation does not imply causation; it's possible that other factors contribute to both sexlessness and intelligence.
Research Findings:
Genetic Correlation:A strong genetic link has been found between individuals who have never had sex and traits such as intelligence, education, and income.
Associated Traits:Those who are sexless also tend to be more introverted and show higher rates of autism spectrum disorder. They also tend to have lower rates of substance abuse disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Complex Picture:The research paints a complex picture, acknowledging that the underlying causes of these associations are not fully understood. It is difficult to determine if sexlessness causes unhappiness, or if a third factor influences both.
Intelligence and Sex:
Educational Goals:More intelligent teenagers may focus on their educational and occupational goals and be more aware of potential negative consequences of early sexual activity, leading to later sexual activity, a Business Insider article from 2023 states.
Bell-Shaped Relationship:Some older research has noted a bell-shaped relationship between IQ scores and sexual activity, where those with extremely high or low IQs are less likely to be sexually active than those with average intelligence.
Important Considerations:
Correlation vs. Causation:The study highlights that while correlations exist, this doesn't mean never having sex causes higher intelligence, or vice versa. A shared underlying factor could be responsible for both.
Wellbeing:The study also notes that individuals who have never had sex tend to report feeling more lonely, nervous, and less happy, which suggests an entanglement of sex and wellbeing.
Research Findings:
Genetic Correlation:A strong genetic link has been found between individuals who have never had sex and traits such as intelligence, education, and income.
Associated Traits:Those who are sexless also tend to be more introverted and show higher rates of autism spectrum disorder. They also tend to have lower rates of substance abuse disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Complex Picture:The research paints a complex picture, acknowledging that the underlying causes of these associations are not fully understood. It is difficult to determine if sexlessness causes unhappiness, or if a third factor influences both.
Intelligence and Sex:
Educational Goals:More intelligent teenagers may focus on their educational and occupational goals and be more aware of potential negative consequences of early sexual activity, leading to later sexual activity, a Business Insider article from 2023 states.
Bell-Shaped Relationship:Some older research has noted a bell-shaped relationship between IQ scores and sexual activity, where those with extremely high or low IQs are less likely to be sexually active than those with average intelligence.
Important Considerations:
Correlation vs. Causation:The study highlights that while correlations exist, this doesn't mean never having sex causes higher intelligence, or vice versa. A shared underlying factor could be responsible for both.
Wellbeing:The study also notes that individuals who have never had sex tend to report feeling more lonely, nervous, and less happy, which suggests an entanglement of sex and wellbeing.
