Episode 301: Masturbation: Myths, Shame, and What the Research Says

Masturbation can bring up a lot of shame, fear, and conflicting messages about what is healthy or acceptable. In this episode, I explore the research and common myths surrounding masturbation, including why it’s important to understand the difference between the behavior itself and the distress you may feel about it.

I explain what the research says about masturbation, when it can become harmful, and how misinformation and sexual shame can shape the way you think about your sexuality. We’ll also explore how religious beliefs, guilt, and black-and-white thinking can influence your experience, and why you get to make your own decisions about your body and sexual behavior.

Tune in this week to explore how guilt can serve as information rather than an automatic answer, and why working through sexual shame can help you make decisions about masturbation from a place of greater self-trust and personal authority.

Learn more about the Befriend Your Sexuality program and coaching here!

What You'll Learn from this Episode:

• Common myths about masturbation and what the research actually says.

• When masturbation may interfere with daily life or relationships.

• How sexual shame and misinformation can affect your relationship with your sexuality.

• Why abstinence-based approaches to problematic porn use can sometimes increase distress.

• How religious beliefs and guilt can shape the way you think about masturbation.

• How to use guilt as information while deciding what feels right for you.

Listen to the Full Episode:

Featured on the Show:

• Learn more about the Befriend Your Sexuality program here.

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• Book a call with Hunter

• Explore the Workbook

Episodes Related to Masturbation, Myths, and Shame:

• Episode 172: Healthy Sexuality Part 1: Using Sexuality for Good

• Episode 173: Healthy Sexuality Part 2: More Myths About Pornography

• Episode 254: Learning to Trust Your Own Spiritual Authority

Full Episode Transcript:

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