Masturbation is self-stimulation of the genitals, energized by fantasy that leads to sexual arousal and orgasm. In addition to generating sexual desire leading to masturbation, sexual fantasies are created, refined, lustily sanctioned, and at a woman’s caprice, discarded or retained for future use. Masturbation and fantasy influence one another and are inextricably linked. Historically, masturbation has been labeled as sexually deviant behavior and a social taboo despite its common practice. But as social and moral codes have modernized, masturbation’s positive role and importance in sexual health has been endorsed. We now believe it is a normal behavior that most people have practiced at various frequencies throughout the life span.
The mental processes and fantasies determining masturbatory behavior illuminate intimate aspects of a woman’s sexual desire. As an infant, localized genital sensations are noted to be pleasurable, help soothe distressing mental states, and are believed to...
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Suggested Reading
Carnes, P. J. (1991). Don’t call it love: Recovery from sexual addiction. New York: Bantam Books.
Levine, S. B. (1992). Sexual life: A clinician’s guide. New York: Plenum Press.
Suggested Resources
Betty Dodson Online: http://www.bettydodson.com (1998–2002). Betty Dodson, Ph.D., New York.
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© 2004 Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers
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Martz, G. (2004). Masturbation. In: Encyclopedia of Women’s Health. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-306-48113-0_261
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-306-48113-0_261
Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA
Print ISBN: 978-0-306-48073-7
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