Acircle jerk, also sometimes spelledcirclejerk, is asexual practice in which a group of men form a circle andmasturbate or touch each other's genitals. In the metaphorical sense, the term is used to refer toself-congratulatory behavior or discussion among a group of people, usually in reference to a "boring or time-wasting meeting or other event".[1]
Circle jerks often feature a competitive element, with the "winner" being the participant able toejaculate first, last, or farthest depending on the pre-established rules.[1][2] They can serve as an introduction to sexual relations with other males, or as a sexual outlet at an age or situation when regular sexual activity with another person is not possible.[1]
While circle jerks feature ahomoerotic element, some analysts interpretadolescent boys' group activities such as circle jerks as an effort to establishheterosexual,masculine dominance within the group.[1][2][3] However, AmericansociologistBernard Lefkowitz asserts that what actually motivates participation is the desire for friends to witness and acknowledge one's sexual prowess, helping to counter teenage feelings of inadequacy related to sexual activity.[3]
The rise of the internet has also contributed to circle jerks online. These activities may happen over video-calling platforms that allow men to replicate what an in-person circle jerk would entail. As opposed to touching each other given the virtual environment, they can still masturbate and establish masculine dominance within the group.
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