Episode 274: The Wacky History of Masturbation

Human beings have a long and complicated history with masturbation. Although it was originally pursued without care or consequence, self-pleasure eventually came to be seen as a pathway to disease and one of the gravest sins you could commit. In today’s show, we’re going to explore the wacky history of masturbation, which is a timely topic because we’re currently in the midst of a social media fueled war on self-pleasure.

I am joined by Dr. Eric Sprankle, an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology and the co-director of the Sexuality Studies program at Minnesota State University, Mankato. He’s also a licensed clinical psychologist and AASECT-certified sex therapist affiliated with the Minnesota Sexual Health Institute. His latest book is titled, DIY: The Wonderfully Weird History and Science of Masturbation.

Some of the topics we explore in this episode include:

• Where did the idea of masturbation as a sinful activity originate?
• What are some of the ways religious leaders have tried to discourage self-pleasure over the years?
• When did masturbation start to become a public health concern, and why?
• Why does self-pleasure continue to be a controversial topic to this day?
• How has the rise of social media coincided with a rise in negative views on masturbation?

Make sure to check out Eric’s website to learn more and follow him on the socials @drsprankle.

Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

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