Masturbation

Lore & Background

Masturbation involves touching, pressing, rubbing, or massaging one's own genital area with hands, fingers, or objects. Techniques vary by sex: females commonly stimulate the clitoris manually or with objects like vibrators or dildos, while males typically stroke the penis with a loose fist. Both sexes may use lubricants, engage in anal stimulation, or incorporate erotic stimuli such as pornography. Mutual masturbation, where partners masturbate together or watch each other, is also practiced. Religions vary in their views of masturbation. In the 18th and 19th centuries, some European theologians and physicians described it in negative terms, but during the 20th century these taboos generally declined. The legal status of masturbation has varied through history, and masturbation in public is illegal in most countries. Masturbation in non-human animals has been observed both in the wild and in captivity. The word masturbation was introduced in the 18th century, based on the Latin verb masturbari, alongside the slightly earlier onanism. The Latin verb is of uncertain origin, with suggested derivations including an unattested word for penis or a corruption of an unattested phrase meaning 'to defile with the hand.'

Reader's Guide

Masturbation is a common human behavior with a long history of depiction in art and discussion in early writings. Clinicians consider it a healthy, normal part of sexual enjoyment, and various medical and psychological benefits have been attributed to a healthy attitude toward it. The practice has been subject to shifting cultural and religious attitudes, with negative descriptions by some European theologians and physicians in the 18th and 19th centuries giving way to a general decline of taboos in the 20th century. This shift is reflected in increased discussion and portrayal of masturbation in art, popular music, television, films, and literature. The legal status of masturbation has varied through history, with public masturbation remaining illegal in most countries. The etymology of the term remains uncertain, reflecting the complex history of attitudes toward the practice. Masturbation techniques are diverse and may involve manual stimulation, objects, or sexual aids, and can be performed alone or with a partner. The behavior is also observed in non-human animals, both in the wild and in captivity.

Did You Know?

• Masturbation has been depicted in art since prehistoric times.
• The word 'masturbation' was introduced in the 18th century, based on the Latin verb 'masturbari' of uncertain origin.
• Masturbation in non-human animals has been observed both in the wild and in captivity.
• Mutual masturbation involves partners masturbating together or watching each other masturbate.