Masturbating and having sex with another person are not even in the same ballpark for me. Without getting too graphic, I'll just say that masturbation is goal-oriented for me, but sex is about pleasure, about enjoying the moment, for as many moments as my lover and I can stand.

I want more than just sex, and as you point out if I want sex I have my toys. I want companionship, intellectual stimulation, good conversation, and someone who cares for me. Did you know a hug will release endorphins including oxytocin, the bonding hormone? I don't think an orgasm with my vibe is going to do that.

Masturbation/toys get the job done but I need/desire human contact.

The alternative would be to let the frustration grow and grow and grow. Masturbation relieves an immediate need. But there's always something missing with that. And that is what makes people seek others.

Sex is so much better with someone else in the room!

Speaking from a man's point of view, ejaculation is a healthy activity for the prostate gland (according to Med internet sites). Masturbation is a healthy activity with pleasure as a plus.

You've started quite the interesting conversation here Shelton ! I've often wondered about this myself . I haven't had a partner in,well let's just say, several years and have gotten quite used to the convenience of only thinking about sexual pleasure when I'm truly feeling a need.And like a previous commenter said, it often leads to a much more intense and quickly reached release as we know our own bodies so well ! In my last relationship I was so into him physically that it became very hard to let go when it was no longer healthy in other ways. I guess I may still fear ending up in that situation again.

One is a quick meal - the other is a fine dining experience.

If you only care about sexual release and don't want an actual partner to care about, I guess. Somebody might have intimacy issues. Alternatively, could be a rape survivor and hasn't regained sexual confidence. Or could have Aversive Personality Disorder or Schizoid Personality Disorder.

I strongly believe masturbation is part of the healthy livestyle as things go purely on the plane of sexual satisfaction.
Finding a person to share your life with is a completely different thing.
And seeking a person just for a casual sexual activity, at least in my personal perception, is wrong. (Not like I haven't had such type of experiences, just do not feel comfortable with them)

Masturbation and sex are very different for me. Masturbation is how I can orgasm. I suppose that would be possible with sex, but in my limited experience I never have. Men seem to be very focused on their goal and then it’s over.

But if I had to choose, I’d stick to sex. There’s far more to it than just that goal.

I find that it's a great alternative to sex and regularly preferable. Sex comes with risk, meaning, commitment and very often emotions. That can be overwhelming if indulged in for sheer pleasure. Have a wank, takes but a moment, can fornicate til your heart content. No risk but that of getting caught by someone doing the sinful act.

hmmm age seems to have changed things, just the past 5 years the libido has eased back a bit, so no longer continually frustrated. Thankfully this only applies when I am alone, so no need for viagra yet.

Nah. Not for me, anyway. I mean, my vibrator's nice, and all, but I'd rather have a person to share sexy funtimes with.

However, I hate... echh... cuddling. I end up a hot, sweaty, irritable mess inside of two minutes.

Plus ive had better orgasms alone and far quicker than with the majority of women I've been with. With no headache or having to cuddle and stay up after. Can go straight to sleep.

I have read a thing by a psychologist who stated that sex is good but pillow talk is better, he also expanded on that. He also talked on that thing of time duration of that activity and part of it was how long men can last and how long women want them to and how both react to that. So, yes there are those endorphins that can be easily pleased.

You raise a good question there, it sure could be.

It's a psychological buzz and lustfulness that makes sex exalted to the level people put it in. Thats why allot of people just don't get the big deal until they find someone they 'click' with.

No I think its the other way around and allows you to be more choosy and less desperate for sex. my first long time partner didnt have the same lebido as me so I would spank the monkey rather than keep pushing for sex with someone who doesnt feel like sex right then. she knew I did too and it was all good in that respect. sex is very good but like love it isnt everything and to me forcing yourself on someone, even your partner is rape really. I enjoy sex too like most people.

I'm sure there are men that will take care of themselves a few times daily and go out, lol.

But no, I don't think it puts much of a damper on things.

I'm not interested in cheap meaningless sex. I want a partner first. I can take care of my own physical needs. Sex is a very intimate form of physical expression, I have to be really into someone to share that part of me with them.