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ADVANCED LESSON

The Science (And History) Of Masturbation

This lesson normalises masturbation as a valid form of sexual expression and reduces the shame associated with talking about sexuality and pleasure.

Learning intentions:

  • Develop skills for talking about sexuality and pleasure
  • Differentiate between myths and facts relating to bodies and pleasure
  • Understand sexuality as a personal and private choice

Digital Educator: Chloe

  • 12-30 learners

    Class size

  • 11+

    Year Level

  • 45-60 minutes

    Course duration

  • One

    Student Handouts

    Preparing for the lesson

    Information
    Resources
    ACHPE Objectives
    UNESCO Objectives
    Safety & Wellbeing
    Sequence
    Extension
    In this The Science (And History) Of Masturbation lesson, students will develop skills in relation to the concepts of pleasure and social influences. 

    The lesson begins with a brainstorm and knowledge sharing, before asking students to accurately define masturbation. Students will examine the wide range of myths around masturbation and watch a video explaining some of the historical context to these myths. 

    Each lesson ends with a consolidation activity, inviting students to list 1 thing they have learnt from the lesson, 1 thing they already knew, 1 piece of advice they would share with a friend, and 1 adult or organisation that would be helpful in relation to the lesson topic.  

    Facilitator Printouts

    Student Printouts

    Additional Student Resources


    Not applicable.
    Key Concept 2: Values, Rights, Culture and Society
    2.3 Culture, Society and Sexuality.
    •  Key idea: It is important to be aware of how social and cultural norms impact sexual behaviour while developing one’s own point of view.
    • Key idea: Social, cultural and religious factors influence what is considered acceptable and unacceptable sexual behaviour in society, and these factors evolve over time.
    • This lesson is best suited to later in your RSE program when students have developed sexual communication skills and are comfortable having respectful and nuanced conversations.
    • Many young people feel guilty about masturbating, sometimes due to religious or cultural beliefs, sometimes because it feels shameful. But masturbation is actually healthy and normal.
    • One unspoken message about masturbation is that it should be avoided. In a world of myths and misinformation, it is important for young people to develop positive attitudes about a behaviour which most will engage in, regardless of whether or not they choose to abstain from sexual  intercourse. This lesson helps participants examine common attitudes and beliefs about masturbation in a nonthreatening, non-judgmental manner.
    1. Research the origin of masturbation myths across different cultures and religions. 
    2. Research the language and celebration of self-pleasure and masturbation across different cultures and religions. 
    Ideally, you will have scope to deliver all of the lessons in your program. However we understand that many schools have limited capacity to do so.

    In Year 11 and 12 you can deliver lessons from either year level. It can be helpful for Year 12's to explore more foundational issues in the Year 11 curriculum. It is also beneficial for Year 11's to have access to more advanced lessons from the Year 12 curriculum.  

    Should you find yourself having to implement part of this program, we have provided a suggested sequence of lessons within the broader skills and knowledge categories of relationship, consent, gender, and health & legal literacy. We recommend delivering at least one lesson from each category.

    1. Group Agreements & Pod Mapping should be the first lesson as per best practice.
    2. The program should finish with Great Debates as it provides an opportunity for students to integrate their learnings with their own values and engage in respectful communication on conflicting views. 

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