What Distinguishes Childhood Masturbation from Other Potential Diagnostic Entities?

Discussion “Childhood masturbation (CM) is defined as self-stimulation of the genitalia in a prepubescent child.” CM is normal sexual behavior and can be noted at all ages including infancy. It becomes very common after puberty. It is one of the most common sexual behaviors. CM can resemble the same adult masturbatory activity including flushing, sweating, muscular contracting and breath holding or tachypnea. However in younger children these changes are not recognized, are interpreted differently or infants and young children may also have different activities. “…(1)stereotyped posturing of the lower extremities and/or mechanical pressure on the perineum or suprapubic area, (2) associated intermittent (quiet) grunting, irregular breathing, facial flushing and diaphoresis, (3) variable duration of the episode (lasting from a few seconds to several hours) and variable frequencies of episodes (range form once in a while to almost continuously), (4) no alteration of consciousness, (5) cessation with distraction, (6) the episodes cannot be explained by abnormalities on physical and other diagnostic (technical, laboratory) examinations.” In young children CM is part of their curiosity of the world and in this case in exploring their own and other’s bodies (i.e. viewing genitalia) and in discovering pleasurable sensations. Sexual behaviors in puberty and post-pubertal youth and adults is more intentional with sexual arousal and/or orgasm as goals...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news