Autoeroticism

Autoeroticism (also known as autoerotism or self-gratification)^[1][2] is sexual activity involving only one participant.^[3] It is the practice of sexually stimulating oneself. As an extension of masturbation, it contains several activities done by oneself to fulfill sexual desires (sexual gratification).

The term masturbation has a similar meaning, but is not synonymous; masturbation is only physical stimulation of the genitals by oneself,^[4] while autoeroticism encompasses all stimulation by oneself (physical touching and sexual thoughts), as well as involuntary experiences (wet dreams or spontaneous sexual arousal.)

The term was popularized toward the end of the 19th century by British sexologist Havelock Ellis, who defined autoeroticism as "the phenomenon of spontaneous sexual emotion generated in the absence of an external stimulus proceeding, directly or indirectly, from another person".^[5]

Autosexuality is a similar term. It is human sexuality directed for the self, and is usually accompanied by autoerotic activities such as masturbation or sexually fantasizing about oneself.^[6]

It is important to note that the mere act of autoeroticism does not mean a person is autosexual.^[7] Masturbation, for example, can be directed at oneself, but can also be used to lessen sexual frustration, relieve stress, or as a substitute for sex when a partner is not available. The act of autoeroticism can be done regardless of a person's sexual orientation, but might be a factor in deciding one's sexuality. For example, sexual fantasy about the same sex might be a sign of being gay,^[8] it is not uncommon for heterosexual people to have homosexual fantasies.