Adults who are most likely to masturbate, and most likely to masturbate more frequently than others, have several characteristics in common— indicating that even this private sexual behavior is strongly influenced by a person’s social group (Laumann et al., 1994). They have liberal views, are college educated, and are living with a sexual partner. White […]

People masturbate for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the pleasure of arousal and orgasm. The most commonly reported reason is to relieve sexual tension (Michael et al., 1994). Masturbation is also valuable as a means of self-exploration. Sex educator Elea­nor Hamilton recommends masturbation to adolescents as a way to release […]

In this textbook the word masturbation is used to describe self-stimulation of one’s genitals for sexual pleasure. Autoeroticism is another term used for masturbation. We discuss some perspectives on and purposes of masturbation and specific techniques used in masturbation. Perspectives on Masturbation Masturbation has been a source of social concern and censure throughout Judeo — […]

Erotic fantasies are generally considered a healthy and helpful aspect of sexuality (Goleman, 2006). Many sex therapists encourage their clients to use sexual fantasies as a source of stimulation to help them increase interest and arousal. Research found that people who felt less guilty about sexual fantasies during intercourse reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction […]

Men’s and women’s fantasy lives have some aspects in common. First, the frequency of fantasy is similar for both sexes during sexual activity with a partner. Second, both CHAPTER 8 men and women indicate a wide range of fantasy content. A research summary of het­erosexual male/female content of sexual fantasy (Leitenberg & Henning, 1995) found […]

Erotic fantasies serve many functions. First, they can be a source of pleasure and arousal. Erotic thoughts typically serve to enhance sexual arousal during masturbation and partners’ sexual activities. Fantasies can be a way to mentally rehearse and anticipate new sexual experiences. Imagining seductive glances, that first kiss, or a novel intercourse position may help […]

Erotic waking fantasies commonly occur during daydreams, masturbation, or sexual encounters with a partner. A review of research about fantasy found that about 95% of men and women reported having experienced sexual fantasies. Comparing the con­tent of homosexuals’ and heterosexuals’ fantasies revealed more similarities than dif­ferences, leaving aside the sex of the imagined partner (Leitenberg […]

Some forms of sexual experience occur within a person’s mind, with or without sexual behavior. These are erotic dreams and fantasy—mental experiences that arise from our imagination or life experience or that are stimulated by the Internet, books, drawings, photographs, or movies. Erotic Dreams Erotic dreams, and occasionally orgasm, can occur during sleep without a […]

A physically mature person who does not engage in sexual behavior is said to be celibate. In complete celibacy a person neither masturbates nor has sexual contact with another person. In partial celibacy an individual masturbates but does not have interpersonal sexual contact. Celibacy is not commonly thought of as a form of sexual expression. […]

■ It is important to select the right time and place for express­ing sexual concerns. Avoid registering complaints when anger is at its peak. ■ Complaints are generally most effective when tempered with praise. People are usually more motivated to make changes when they are praised for their strengths as well as made aware of […]