Rising college costs have driven many students to seek alternative income sources, with OnlyFans becoming a popular choice for some. This platform, which allows users to create and sell sexually explicit content, has attracted a significant number of college students looking for quick cash. However, experts are raising concerns about the psychological, safety, and career risks associated with this trend.
Rock Jacobs, director of the documentary series ‘Lonely Fans,’ highlighted the alarming increase in OnlyFans usage among students. He noted that the platform has seen a sharp rise in traffic since the pandemic, with creators flocking to it as a way to exchange virtual sex for money. According to the Statista data, the number of creators on OnlyFans has increased from approximately 350,000 in 2019 to over 4.1 million in 2023, signaling a significant shift in campus culture.
The average cost of college in the United States has more than doubled in the 21st century, with students now facing annual tuition costs of around $38,270. This financial burden has pushed many to seek out online income opportunities, such as OnlyFans. However, Jacobs warns of the potential consequences, including the risk of harming their job prospects and reputation within their community.
There are also concerns about the psychological effects of this trend, with New York City-based psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert noting that the platform offers instant gratification, attention, validation, and income all at once. These same rewards can create dependency and affect self-worth. Students risk tying their identity and confidence to clicks and subscribers, which can have long-term implications for their mental health.
Additionally, Jacobs has raised concerns about the normalization of such behavior and its impact on family values. He warned that if this trend continues to grow, it could lead to a diminished understanding of family values and the potential for students to struggle with self-control and restraint in the future.