TheConversation: Conduct an Internet search for “masturbation,” and you will find hundreds, if not thousands, of slang phrases for the act. This proliferation of slang phrases suggests people want to talk
about masturbation, but are uncomfortable about doing so directly. Using
comedic terms provides a more socially acceptable way to express
themselves. So before we talk any more about it, let’s normalise it a bit.
Masturbation, or touching one’s own genitals for pleasure, is something
that babies do from the time they are in the womb. It’s a natural and
normal part of healthy sexual development. According to a nationally representative US sample,
94% of men admit to masturbating, as do 85% of women. But societal
perspectives of masturbation still vary greatly, and there’s even some
stigma around engaging in the act.
