☛ Cette critique est aussi disponible en français [➦].

Translated by Gabrielle Baillargeon-Michaud. 

With this essay published in 1996, Betty Dodson, an American multidisciplinary artist who grounds her work in feminist activism, decides to embark on a journey as a coach to promote a positive and emancipatory approach to sexuality. At the start of her career with her offering of explicit visual art, she encounters the erotic fantasies and curiosities of the people attending her exhibitions. This experience ignites her passion for this hidden and taboo—yet profoundly central—aspect of individuals’ lives. Consequently, she establishes herself as a sexuality educator and sexual life coach, conducting workshops and writing several essays advocating for a fulfilled and liberated sexuality.

In Sex for One, her objective is clear: to restore the dignity of masturbation. She argues that this often-neglected practice is crucial for personal fulfillment, self-esteem, confidence, and complete sexual satisfaction. According to her, masturbation (solo or not) is one of the most effective ways to reconcile with oneself. As she aptly summarizes:

“Since most of us struggle with periods of self-hatred, bad body images, shame and confusion over sex and pleasure, I recommend having a hot love affair with yourself. Sexual healing begins by learning how to turn yourself on, discovering your sexual fantasies, and giving yourself an abundance of selflove and orgasms.” (p. 143)

Sex for One is a delightful, feel-good book that occasionally makes you smile. While it is important to consider its context (1980s–1990s), it remains relevant for anyone needing a confidence boost. Though it leans a bit towards pop psychology, it confidently embraces this stance without pretending to be scientific. It should be noted that much has evolved in sexology since then: the book lacks diversity in presenting gender expression, identity, and sexual orientation. Additionally, some approaches to viewing individuals as sexual beings lack nuance and subtlety, occasionally veering into essentialism¹. Nonetheless, it achieves its goal as a feel-good read by dispelling guilt, taboos, and questions like “Am I normal?” As Dodson states, “The space between the thought and the action was inhibition.” (p. 93)

¹Essentialism is a philosophy that considers that there are inherent characteristics specific to each thing and being. From this perspective, men and women are seen as having distinct and unchanging characteristics.

Reference

Author: Betty Dodson
Title: Sex for One: The Joy of Selfloving
Date of parution : 1996
Publishing house : Three Rivers Press

This book is available in bookstores for $21.99.