Masturbation, despite the fact that it's probably the most common of sexual activities, is still often treated like a shameful secret. Which is why a new study, in which eighty-six percent of people admitted to masturbating with varying frequency, is surprising. Not because the number of masturbators is so high, but because it's hard to believe so many people lie. (Rimshot!)
According the study, eighteen percent of people masturbate daily, and another eighteen percent at least a couple times of month. The study was commissioned by Adam and Eve, a sex-toy retailer, but conducted by a third-party group. Interestingly, the data do not include information on ages or the male/female ratio of the participants.
Whether you're shocked or not, onanism is having a bit of a moment. Last week, America got to see Natalie Portman "having a moment" on the big screen (albeit, one that ended very awkwardly). Then Gossip Girl Taylor Momsen was back talking about how awesome she thinks it is for teenage girls to masturbate. Which is great, although talking about teenage girls and masturbation seems to be her one substantial contribution. Unless you're one of those people who've actually heard her band.