It’s more closely related to atomization than individualism.
Pre-1950’s America was still very individualistic but they also had third spaces and more close knit communities. Without meaningful connection, those who are able to hookup achieve a facsimile of intimacy. Those who aren’t able to get that turn to escort services, onlyfans, and patriarchy etc etc. This compounds the problem until society breaks down.
Of course people do have casual sex for just fun just as they did throughout history. But the major shift towards that isn’t because people changed their minds suddenly.
Something I’m not seeing here that is absolutely essential is a good flashlight.
Human beings can’t do shit in the dark. Useful for power outages, dark areas, and if gets late. I end up using it more than my knife tbh.