All In The Mind The psychology of masturbation
Mar 28, 2026
Dr Vijayasarathi Ramanathan, clinical sexologist and lecturer, offers therapeutic and mindful perspectives. Esme Louise James, sex historian and Kinky History creator, traces changing cultural views. They explore evolutionary roots in animals, historic moral panics, health and mindful practices, and how shame and distress around self-pleasure persist.
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Ancient Cultures Valued Masturbation
- Masturbation was historically normal and even praised in many ancient cultures like Egypt and Greece.
- Esmé Louise James explains it served social functions such as reducing adultery and was once seen as promoting fertility and potency.
The 1712 Pamphlet Sparked A Two Century Taboo
- The modern taboo started around 1712 with a pamphlet claiming masturbation caused blindness, epilepsy and cancer.
- Esmé Louise James traces the escalation through Kellogg and Victorian morality that medicalised and criminalised the behaviour.
Health Benefits Include Stress Relief And Better Body Image
- Masturbation has measurable health benefits like stress relief, improved mood, potential lower prostate cancer risk, eased cramps, sleep aid, and better body image.
- The Queensland Department of Health lists these benefits, highlighting endorphin release and research links to body image.