What turns you on? Students speak out

Valentine’s Day is here, so we’ve asked a group of students at Portland State what turns them on, both physically and emotionally. As it turns out, girls were much more willing to offer insights, which quickly turned this project into an all-female survey.

Erogenous behavior: Pay attention to your lover’s physical responses­—sometimes it’s the little things that turn up the heat. Photo by Riza Liu.
Erogenous behavior: Pay attention to your lover’s physical responses­—sometimes it’s the little things that turn up the heat. Photo by Riza Liu.

Valentine’s Day is here, so we’ve asked a group of students at Portland State what turns them on, both physically and emotionally. As it turns out, girls were much more willing to offer insights, which quickly turned this project into an all-female survey.

What’s a turn-on for you?

Sophomore
“Surprise dates are always…a big turn on for me. It shows they care, and it makes me feel special.”

Junior
“I love when my hair is played with…I also love getting kissed on the back of my neck.”

Sophomore
“I like when someone tickles, scratches or rubs my back—it’s a comforting feeling and makes me feel secure.”

What physical traits do you look for in a partner?

Sophomore
“I like guys with tattoos [and] piercings [who] can play some type of instrument. It’s always sexy when a guy can play an instrument.”

Senior
“I think physical attraction is only a little part of what turns me on. If I meet a guy who has a great personality and a nice smile, that’s what turns me on. Also, a guy with a huge laugh.”