Masturbation in the United States

Area of Science:

• Sexuality and Human Behavior
• Social Psychology
• Health and Medicine

Background:

• Masturbation is a common sexual behavior with varying prevalence rates across demographics.
• Understanding the correlates of masturbation provides insights into sexual expression and satisfaction.
• Previous research suggests potential gender differences in masturbation patterns and motivations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the correlates of masturbation in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults.
• To investigate gender similarities and differences in masturbation prevalence and underlying factors.
• To explore the relationship between masturbation and partnered sexual activity.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the National Health and Social Life Survey (NHSLS) conducted in 1992.
• Analyzed self-reported masturbation frequency and related sexual behaviors among adults aged 18-60.
• Employed statistical analyses to identify factors associated with masturbation for both genders.

Main Results:

• In 1992, 38% of women and 61% of men aged 18-60 reported masturbating in the preceding year.
• The factors influencing masturbation were similar for both genders, suggesting convergence in sexual expression.
• Masturbation exhibited a bimodal linkage with partnered sex, serving to complement satisfying sexual lives or compensate for unsatisfying ones.

Conclusions:

• Masturbation correlates are similar across genders, reflecting evolving patterns of sexual expression in the U.S.
• Masturbation is associated with stable personality traits influenced by early-life factors.
• The dual role of masturbation—complementing or compensating for partnered sex—is evident in both men and women.