Boys in particular are trying to get to the point of orgasm, and at around 11 or 12, they may start seeking pornographic material. Masturbation becomes goal-driven around age 10.
The second reason is for stress reduction and relaxation. They learn what feels good, and they'll continue to touch themselves,' Swanson explains. 'In the beginning stages starting between ages 3 and 5, kids are exploring their bodies. Young kids touch themselves primarily for two reasons. 'It's the beginning of a lifelong learning experience about their bodies and, later, about sex and sexuality,' says David Swanson, PsyD, a child and family psychologist practicing in Los AngelesĪnd author of HELP - My Kid Is Driving Me Crazy: The 17 Ways Kids Manipulate Their Parents, and What You Can Do About It. And it can start at a younger age than you might think. Masturbation is a very natural and healthy part of childhood.
