Negative Attitudes Toward Masturbation Scale (NATMS)

Description

The Negative Attitudes Toward Masturbation Scale (NATMS) is a psychometric self-report instrument designed to assess individuals’ negative beliefs, attitudes, and emotional responses toward masturbation. The scale evaluates cognitive, emotional, cultural, and social dimensions of masturbation-related attitudes, providing a comprehensive measure of how personal beliefs, cultural norms, religious values, and social stereotypes influence perceptions of this common sexual behavior.

The NATMS explores feelings such as shame, guilt, embarrassment, and moral conflict, as well as misconceptions surrounding masturbation. These attitudes may affect sexual self-esteem, sexual functioning, body image, intimate relationships, and overall psychological well-being. By identifying maladaptive beliefs, the scale contributes to a better understanding of the psychosocial factors that shape sexual attitudes across different populations.

The instrument is widely applicable in sexology, psychology, psychiatry, public health, sexual education, counseling, and behavioral research, where it supports the investigation of sexual attitudes and the evaluation of interventions promoting healthy sexual development.

Analysis and Use of Data

Analysis of NATMS data provides valuable insights into the prevalence and intensity of negative attitudes toward masturbation and their association with broader aspects of sexual and psychological health.

Statistical analysis commonly includes:

  • Calculation of descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, median, and score distribution).
  • Assessment of internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha or other reliability coefficients.
  • Evaluation of test–retest reliability to determine temporal stability.
  • Investigation of construct validity through Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (EFA/CFA).
  • Comparison of scores across demographic groups, including age, gender, educational level, cultural background, and religious affiliation.
  • Correlation analyses examining relationships with sexual satisfaction, sexual guilt, body image, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship quality, and sexual functioning.
  • Regression or structural equation modeling to identify predictors of negative sexual attitudes and their impact on psychological and sexual well-being.

The findings can be used to support research on sexuality, develop evidence-based educational programs, and evaluate interventions aimed at reducing sexual stigma and improving sexual health literacy.

Objective

The primary objective of the Negative Attitudes Toward Masturbation Scale (NATMS) is to provide a reliable and valid measure of individuals’ negative attitudes toward masturbation and the psychological, cultural, and social factors associated with these attitudes.

More specifically, the scale aims to:

  • Assess feelings of shame, guilt, and discomfort related to masturbation.
  • Examine the influence of cultural, religious, and societal beliefs on sexual attitudes.
  • Identify misconceptions and stigmatizing beliefs regarding masturbation.
  • Support the development of comprehensive sexuality education programs.
  • Promote healthy sexual attitudes and psychological well-being.
  • Facilitate research on sexual behavior, sexual health, and psychosexual adjustment.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of educational or therapeutic interventions targeting sexual attitudes.

Scoring

The NATMS consists of a series of statements rated on a 5-point Likert scale, ranging from:

  • 1 = Strongly Disagree
  • 5 = Strongly Agree

Individual item scores are summed or averaged according to the scoring protocol used in each study. Higher total scores indicate stronger negative attitudes toward masturbation, including higher levels of shame, guilt, moral disapproval, and endorsement of negative social stereotypes.

References

Yule, M. A., Brotto, L. A., & Gorzalka, B. B. (2017). Sexual Fantasy and Masturbation Among Asexual Individuals: An In-Depth Exploration. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 46(1), 311–328.

Das, A. (2007). Sexuality Education in India: Examining the Sexual Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviours of College Students in Mumbai. Sex Education, 7(4), 351–359.

Carvalheira, A. A., & Leal, I. (2013). Masturbation Among Women: Associated Factors and Sexual Response in a Portuguese Sample. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 39(4), 347–367.

Fahs, B., & Frank, E. (2014). Notes from the Back Room: Gender, Power, and (In)Visibility in Women’s Experiences of Masturbation. Journal of Sex Research, 51(3), 241–252.

Coleman, E. (2003). Masturbation as a Means of Achieving Sexual Health. Journal of Psychology & Human Sexuality, 14(2–3), 5–16.