Many guys I know that went to all-boys elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as camps now feel in their 20s very awkward around girls, since the only women they ever talked to were their mom, sisters, teachers, or occasional mixed event.
And btw pleasure is almost always derived from conversations, unless its an argument or just hurling insults…
Interacting at Shabbos meals is awkward and you never know what to say. Mot parents also intentionally separate kids of the same age, if they’re teens.
My main point is that separation is good for maintaining tznius, preventing pre-marital bia, and keeping things clean. At the same time it can also make regular conversations and scenarios awkward, as well as preventing one from having good dates.
I dint think these concerns are overblown because I’ve seen what happens to guys who just left the freezer, and literally never talked to girls their age before. It can feel intimidating and downright scary.
Measures such as this only add to to the tension.