The invisibility of Female Masturbation: How Young Dutch Women Relate to Masturbation

Abstract

In the last decade, partially due to feminism, a broad progressive discussion has emerged regarding female sexuality and masturbation (Dabhoiwala 2012, 5-7). Still, female masturbation remains largely invisible in the public space due to a lack of trustworthy information and correct and diverse representation. Also in the academic discourse, women's own meaning making and understanding of masturbation remains largely under-researched. This research breaks through the pattern of sidelining female masturbation and its social-emotional aspects by investigating how young Dutch women perceive female masturbation. Through the use of a focus groups and a qualitative methodology, the thesis centers the everyday experiences of 14 young Dutch women, aged between 18 and 30. The thesis starts with an literature review that maps the important theories around women’s sexuality, spanning from the 18th century to contemporary studies, which is subsequently linked to the analysis of the discourses emerging from the focus groups. This analysis focuses on three main themes: (a) learning about masturbation (b) talking about masturbation, and (c) experiencing masturbation. By exploring topics such as sexual education, a missing lexicon for female masturbation, gendered power dynamics and vibrators, this thesis creates a space for female narratives about masturbation.