Why are Gen Z users avoiding the term 'lesbian'?

Gen Z is embracing broader and newer identity labels like 'queer,' 'pansexual,' and 'asexual,' reflecting a view of sexuality as a spectrum.

What did the University of Manchester study find about sexual identities?

The study analyzed nearly one million users from 122 countries, finding younger generations prefer diverse terms over traditional ones like 'lesbian'.

Which countries show the most diversity in sexual identities?

Countries in the Global North, such as the US, Canada, and Switzerland, tend to have greater diversity, but exceptions like South Africa exist.

Home / Science / Gen Z Ditches 'Lesbian' for Newer Identity Labels

Gen Z Ditches 'Lesbian' for Newer Identity Labels

16 Dec

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Summary

Gen Z prefers 'queer', 'pansexual', 'asexual' over traditional terms.
Study analyzed nearly one million users from 122 countries.
Younger generations show greater identity diversity globally.

Gen Z Ditches 'Lesbian' for Newer Identity Labels

A recent study based on data from 122 countries indicates that younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are increasingly opting for newer or broader terms to describe their sexual identities, such as 'queer,' 'pansexual,' and 'asexual,' over the traditional label 'lesbian.' This shift suggests a fluid and evolving understanding of sexuality.

The research, which analyzed data from almost one million users of the Zoe dating app between January 2023 and May 2025, revealed significant differences in identity preferences across age groups and geographies. While 'lesbian' and 'bisexual' remain common identities overall, younger users are far more likely to embrace diverse and evolving labels.

Findings showed greater identity diversity in countries within the Global North, though exceptions like South Africa and Israel were noted. The study emphasizes the critical need to expand research frameworks to include emergent identities, moving beyond overreliance on Western data to capture the global evolution of LGBTQIA+ identification.