A hookup relationship is a casual sexual relationship where both partners are looking for nothing more than a physical release of sexual frustration with nothing else attached. The term "hookup" has an ambiguous definition because it can indicate kissing or any form of physical sexual activity between sexual partners. Here are some key features of a hookup relationship:
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Physical intimacy: A hookup includes some form of sexual intimacy, anything from kissing to oral, vaginal, or anal sex, and everything in between.
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Brief duration: A hookup is brief—it can last from a few minutes to as long as several hours over a single night.
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No emotional attachment: A hookup is intended to be purely physical in nature and involves both parties shutting down any communication or connection that might lead to emotional attachment.
It is important to note that the definition of a hookup can vary depending on the person or on the age group. While some people may use the term to refer to sexual intercourse, others may use it to refer to something less than intercourse. A hookup relationship is different from a casual relationship, which is a physical and emotional relationship without the commitment, labels, or demands of a committed relationship.