Group masturbation: A taboo that's more common than you think

Were you also someone who began their sexual life with friends or classmates? I’m not talking about having sex with them, but about those first times you explored yourself sexually.

Maybe you keep it secret, or maybe not—but the truth is that masturbation with one or several friends is a sexual practice that, although rarely talked about, is part of human experience and has been present throughout history.

That’s why, in this article, we aim to explore this phenomenon with the goal of demystifying taboos and understanding how these group experiences may have influenced your adult sexuality.

What Is Group Masturbation and Why Is It Still a Taboo?

Group masturbation involves the practice of self-stimulation in the presence of others, whether it’s with one friend, a colleague, or several people. These sessions can happen simultaneously or by taking turns.The truth is, this practice has been documented across various cultures and historical contexts , yet it has been heavily stigmatized and remains largely unexplored in scientific research.

That’s why it has become a taboo, largely due to social and cultural norms that associate sexuality with privacy and monogamy . Not to mention, many people view these practices—especially when they occur between males—as inherently homosexual, adding another layer of stigma through the lens of homophobia and discrimination.

Group Masturbation During Adolescence

During adolescence, it's common for young people to explore their sexuality in groups , whether out of curiosity, social pressure, or a desire to belong. These experiences range from the previously mentioned group masturbation, especially among boys, to other shared sexual practices, all with the aim of self-exploration. Both types of experiences are ways to discover one’s sexuality and to build connections with peers.

A study cited by Ward (2015) suggests that approximately 20% of men have participated in group masturbation activities during their teenage years. These experiences contribute to the development of sexual identity and a better understanding of intimacy.

Masturbation clubs: Spaces for exploration and community

So far, we've talked about this practice as a phase—something that often appears at the beginning of a young person’s sexual life. But what if, as an adult, you still enjoy it? Well, in case you didn’t know, in some cities there are masturbation clubs where you can meet other men in a safe, consensual environment to take part in group masturbation activities.

These spaces offer the chance to explore your sexuality without fear of judgment, and in the company of others with similar interests.

That said, don't get the wrong idea about the purpose of these clubs—they usually have clear rules in place to ensure respect and the safety of all participants . Ultimately, the existence of such spaces reflects a real need for communities where sexuality can be explored more openly and without the lingering stigma that still surrounds it.

Psychological and sexual benefits of group masturbation

In case you still have doubts about whether this practice is “good” for you or not, there are several aspects worth knowing. Participating in group masturbation activities, when done consensually and respectfully, can actually offer some benefits . These include:

• Self-knowledge : For many people, a better understanding of themselves and their preferences comes from observing and sharing experiences with others.

• Reduced shame : Sharing the experience of masturbation in a safe environment often helps diminish the usual feelings of guilt or embarrassment associated with self-pleasure.

• Stronger bonds : In contexts where trust exists, group masturbation often strengthens the connection between those involved.
  
  

That said, there’s one key point you should always keep in mind: these benefits depend on the context, and on each person’s attitude and openness. Not everyone will feel comfortable with or interested in this kind of practice—and that’s completely valid.

Ethical and consent considerations

As with any sexual activity, and as we've already mentioned, group masturbation must be based on consent and mutual respect . It's essential that all participants fully agree and feel comfortable with the experience. Setting clear boundaries and respecting each person's choices is absolutely fundamental.

Since these are often spaces where many men seek anonymity, confidentiality and discretion are also important factors to consider . Creating an environment of trust and safety depends on everyone involved, and it’s key to ensuring the experience is positive for all participants.

Conclusion

Group masturbation, despite being surrounded by taboos, is a practice that has been part of human experience across various cultures and historical periods. The solution to dealing with such harmless practices—which also offer many potential benefits—is not to continue reinforcing the stigma around them. Instead, we can expand our understanding of sexuality and encourage a more open and respectful attitude toward the diverse ways people express their sexuality.

To achieve this, it's essential to promote comprehensive sex education that includes conversations about less conventional practices, always emphasizing consent, respect, and safety. In doing so, we help build a more inclusive and understanding society when it comes to sexuality.

Sources

• Ward, J. (2015). Not gay: Sex between straight white men. New York University Press. 

• Rain City Jacks. (s.f.). Rain City Jacks: Seattle’s Jack-Off Club. Recuperado de https://raincityjacks.org

• Brame, G. (2019). Why Straight Men Are Joining Masturbation Clubs. GQ. Recuperado de https://www.gq.com/story/why-straight-men-are-joining-masturbation-clubs

• ResearchGate. (2023). Group Masturbation Among Young and Old(er): A Summary With Questions. Recuperado de https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318774305_Group_masturbation_among_young_and_older_A_summary_with_questions