Higher Masturbation Rates Among Intelligent People, Study Suggests

A recent US study unveils a surprising link between higher education levels and increased masturbation frequency. This research challenges common assumptions about sexual behavior, highlighting how intelligence may influence personal intimacy and self-exploration.

Research Links Intelligence to Higher Masturbation Rates

A significant study conducted in the United States has revealed a compelling correlation: individuals with higher educational attainment tend to engage in masturbation more frequently. This intriguing finding, led by psychologist Debby Herbenick of the Kinsey Institute and the National School of Sexual Health and Behavior, sheds new light on our understanding of self-pleasure. The extensive research, reportedly funded by a condom manufacturer and surveying 6,000 U.S. citizens aged 14 to 90, represents one of the most comprehensive examinations of modern sexual habits.

Key Findings on Self-Pleasure and Sexual Behavior

The detailed analysis of the survey data uncovered various insights into masturbation habits across different demographics.

Education and Masturbation Frequency

Consistent with the study’s central revelation, a clear trend emerged: the higher an individual’s academic qualification, the more habitually they reported masturbating. This suggests a potential link between intellectual engagement and personal sexual exploration.

Masturbation Across Age Groups

The study also provided specific data on masturbation prevalence:

• 71.5% of women aged 25-29 reported masturbating within the last year.
• Among older demographics, 46.5% of women aged 60-69 and 33% of individuals over 70 indicated they had masturbated in the past 12 months, challenging conventional beliefs about senior sexuality.

Other Sexual Behaviors Explored

Beyond self-pleasure, the survey touched upon other aspects of sexual activity:

• Pornography Consumption: 25% of men and only 5% of women admitted to viewing online pornography in the last month.
• Condom Use Challenges: A notable 28% of men reported experiencing erectile dysfunction while attempting to apply a condom during at least one of their last three sexual encounters.