Ahead of Valentine’s Day, a new report from IQ shows that alcohol still plays a central role in many young people’s dating lives in Sweden. Two out of three young adults say that alcohol makes it easier to flirt or approach someone, and more than one in four report that they had consumed alcohol at their sexual debut. The findings point to how closely alcohol remains linked to dating, intimacy, and social confidence among young people, even as overall alcohol consumption continues to decline b0715c5ef9d98969.
The report highlights a clear tension in young people’s attitudes. Alcohol is often associated with courage, relaxation, and daring to take the first step, particularly in romantic or sexual situations. At the same time, many express a desire for more sober relationships. According to the survey, two out of three young people prefer a partner who drinks occasionally but otherwise lives a largely sober life, suggesting that moderation, rather than heavy drinking, is increasingly valued.
Alcohol is also described as a “dating aid” in more intimate contexts. Two thirds of respondents believe it makes flirting easier, and 36 percent say it helps them dare more in sexual situations. However, the report also underlines the risks. Nearly one in four young people think alcohol increases the likelihood of unprotected sex or of regretting what happened afterwards. IQ notes that while alcohol may lower inhibitions, it can also blur boundaries and lead to situations young people might not otherwise choose.
The findings are based on the report Rus & unga 10: Sex and relationships, which draws on a nationally representative survey of 1,032 young people aged 15 to 30. The survey was conducted by Ungdomsbarometern between March and April 2025. Taken together, the results paint a nuanced picture of a generation that is drinking less, seeking more conscious choices in relationships, yet still navigating the powerful social role alcohol plays in dating and intimacy.
Find more from IQ (Sweden, February 2026)
Alcohol Awareness 