It is an unpleasant subject to think about or to discuss, and yet because of its importance, we must speak frankly and plainly. The marriage rate is declining, remarkably fast. Intercourse outside of matrimony is a legal as well as a moral offense. Is it any wonder that the phenomena we have under discussion should be on the increase. Because masturbation is increasing in spite of all the grave yard propaganda that has been spread against it.
Arguments based on the moral aspect are of little avail.
The subject is worthy of an exacting study so that its effects may be tabulated and guarded against. In practically every case the habit is started innocently, or from idle curiosity. It is practiced only occasionally it first, but it is a habit which grows, and usually when it as become a habit and a menace to health, it is given up promptly and forever. Many young men upon learning of the evil effects of self abuse give up the physical habit. They have more control over their bodies than they have over their minds, and they continue to practice the habit mentally.