About 98% of men and 61% of women in Morocco reported having engaged in masturbation. The rate is higher than that of many Muslim countries. This suggests that Moroccans have relatively positive attitudes towards this practice compared to their peers from neighboring Islamic nations. It also shows a growing acceptance of sexual pleasure as an integral part of life among young people in urban areas.
These findings contradict the dominant religious belief that masturbation should be avoided because it is considered wasteful and unproductive. Masturbation has long been associated with negative moral implications for both genders, including mental disorders, physical illnesses, and spiritual deficiency. Yet, recent research indicates that some Moroccans may now consider it acceptable in certain circumstances, especially when done privately without hurting others.
One of the most significant factors shaping sexual self-perception in Moroccan society is Islamic teachings regarding sex and gender roles. Men are expected to engage in sexual acts regularly while remaining faithful to one partner. They must demonstrate strength, courage, and masculinity through their performance in bed. Women, on the other hand, are taught to remain pure until marriage and avoid premarital intimacy. Married women are supposed to follow their husbands' instructions and meet their needs at all times. These norms create a tension between personal desires and societal expectations.
Women who masturbate may feel guilty and anxious due to cultural taboos against solo sexual pleasure or fear of judgment from family members. This internal conflict can lead to lowered self-esteem and difficulty communicating with partners about their desires.
In addition to religious norms, social pressures shape attitudes toward masturbation. Some parents discourage children from touching themselves out of fear that they will become obsessed with sexual pleasure and not focus on more important matters such as education or work. Others believe that masturbation leads to premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or psychological problems later in life.
These beliefs have been debunked by scientific evidence showing that masturbation has no negative physical effects on health. Nevertheless, some men still perceive it as shameful or unmanly, leading them to keep their habits secret and experience anxiety when discovered by others. Similarly, many women feel embarrassment when caught masturbating because they worry about being judged for deviating from traditional gender roles.
Ethical understandings of desire also affect attitudes towards masturbation. The Islamic concept of 'haya' emphasizes modesty and privacy in sexual behavior. It teaches that one should not act impulsively but rather wait for the right moment and partner before engaging in intimacy. Masturbation is often seen as an expression of weakness, lack of self-control, and failure to adhere to moral guidelines. Thus, those who practice it may face stigma and ostracism from peers or family members. On the other hand, some individuals view masturbation as a way to explore sexuality safely and responsibly without endangering relationships or hurting others. They may even seek professional help if they struggle with excessive urges or addiction to masturbate. This approach highlights the importance of balance between personal needs and social expectations in managing desires ethically.
Moroccan cultural and religious norms regarding masturbation are complex and dynamic. While some people embrace solo pleasure for its own sake, others see it as detrimental to their identities or relationships. The attitude towards this practice depends on various factors such as age, education, religion, family background, and urban/rural location. As society becomes more open to alternative lifestyles, we can expect further changes in how Moroccans perceive and discuss masturbation. Nevertheless, it remains a controversial topic that requires sensitivity and understanding when discussed publicly or privately.
How do Moroccan cultural and religious attitudes toward masturbation influence sexual self-perception, relational intimacy, and ethical understanding of desire?
The cultural and religious beliefs of Moroccans play an important role in shaping their sexual self-perception, relational intimacy, and ethical understanding of desire. While some cultures view masturbation as a natural and normal part of human behavior, others consider it taboo and sinful. Similarly, certain religions may have strict guidelines regarding sexuality that can impact how individuals perceive and express themselves sexually.