What Is Masturbation?
Masturbation is when a person touches sensitive parts of their own body, oftentimes but not necessarily, including their genitals, for pleasure. There are plenty of reasons as to why people masturbate, some of which might be for pleasure, self-exploration, to relax or to learn what they like and feels good for them (cf. Planned Parenthood, 2025).
Is it normal?
YES!
Masturbation is a common behaviour that people of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, and relationship statuses may engage in. While some individuals masturbate frequently, others do so rarely or not at all – and all these experiences are perfectly normal. For some, masturbation can be a way to learn about their bodies and what feels good to them. For others, it might hold no interest, and that’s equally valid (cf. Cleveland Clinic, 2022c).
Why Do People Masturbate?
● To feel pleasure
● To release tension
● To explore what feels good
● To fall asleep or reduce stress
● To understand their body better
● To feel less bored
● To help with menstrual cramps
Many people are taught to feel bad or ashamed about masturbation – but those feelings often come from myths, religious or cultural beliefs. It is essential to keep in mind that everybody gets to decide for themselves whether they would like to explore their sexuality by masturbating or not (cf. idem).
Safety Rules: Whilst masturbation is something completely normal, it should only be done in private, such as in one’s bedroom or bathroom. This is to ensure that one’s own security, intimacy, and privacy, as well as those of others, are protected.
Safety & Hygiene Tips
● Masturbation should only be done in privacy
● Hands should be washed before
● Fingernails should be rounded
● Body limits should be respected
● For additional lubrication, no other product but the actual lubrication gel should be used
● Sex toys should be sanitised and body-safe
● No sharp or harmful objects should be used to prevent injury
Side note: It is okay to masturbate as well as to masturbate regularly. However, if it becomes compulsive and starts to interfere with one’s daily life and/or causes harm to oneself, it is advised to consult a doctor or psychologist (cf. idem).
Goals
The aim of this chapter is to support autistic individuals in:
● Understanding that pleasure and self-exploration are natural aspects of human development
● Learning what masturbation is and where it is appropriate
● Identifying the difference between private and public behaviours and spaces
● Exploring concepts of personal and sexual expression safely and respectfully
● Recognising and respecting personal boundaries and those of others
● Developing emotional safety, confidence, and self-regulation around their bodies