The sexual stimulation of one's own genitals in order to achieve sexual arousal and orgasm. It is also known by the term masturbation.
example
In der Aufklärungsliteratur wird Selbstbefriedigung als ein normaler Teil der menschlichen Sexualität beschrieben.
In sex education literature, masturbation is described as a normal part of human sexuality.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is very logically structured: it consists of 'Selbst-' (self) and 'Befriedigung' (satisfaction). So it literally means 'the satisfaction of oneself.'
EXAMPLE
Das Wort Selbstbefriedigung beschreibt den Vorgang sehr direkt.
The word 'Selbstbefriedigung' (masturbation) describes the process very directly.
Register and style
'Selbstbefriedigung' (masturbation) is a neutral to formal term used in medical, psychological, or educational texts. It is not a colloquial or vulgar word.
EXAMPLE
Im Biologieunterricht wurde auch das Thema Selbstbefriedigung besprochen.
The topic of masturbation was also discussed in biology class.
Typical collocations
To express the action, the noun is often combined with the verb 'betreiben' (to engage in/practice). The phrase 'Selbstbefriedigung betreiben' (to engage in masturbation) is a common, though somewhat formal, way to say this.
EXAMPLE
Der Artikel beschreibt, warum Menschen Selbstbefriedigung betreiben.
The article describes why people engage in masturbation.
Compare with
near_synonym
Selbstbefriedigung vs Handarbeit
handwork / handicrafts
'Handarbeit' and 'Selbstbefriedigung' can mean the same thing in a sexual context. 'Selbstbefriedigung' is a clear, factual term for sexual stimulation of oneself. In this meaning, 'Handarbeit' is colloquial and more of an indirect euphemism. In addition, 'Handarbeit' very often means something completely different, such as sewing, knitting, or work done without a machine. Therefore, 'Selbstbefriedigung' is more precise if you want to avoid misunderstandings.
Selbstbefriedigung
In der Beratung wird Selbstbefriedigung ruhig und sachlich erklärt.
In counseling, masturbation is explained calmly and factually.
Handarbeit
Im Kurs lachten einige, weil das Wort Handarbeit in diesem Kontext doppeldeutig war.
In the course, some people laughed because the word Handarbeit was ambiguous in this context.