Betty Dodson

Betty Dodson (1929-2020) was an American sex educator, author, and artist who was widely known for her pioneering work in women's sexual liberation and empowerment. Born in Wichita, Kansas, Dodson grew up in a conservative environment before moving to New York City, where she pursued a career in art. She earned a degree from the Art Students League of New York and began her career as a painter.

In the 1960s, Dodson shifted her focus from art to sex education. Frustrated by the lack of information and openness about female sexuality, she became an advocate for women's sexual pleasure and health. Dodson is best known for her groundbreaking workshops and bodysex groups, where she taught women about their bodies and encouraged them to explore their sexuality through masturbation.

Her influential book, Sex for One: The Joy of Selfloving (1974), challenged societal taboos around female masturbation and promoted self-pleasure as a key component of sexual health. Dodson continued her advocacy work throughout her life, authoring several books and creating educational videos that emphasized the importance of sexual autonomy and pleasure.

Contribution to Sex Education

Betty Dodson's contributions to sex education were transformative and far-reaching. She was a trailblazer in promoting open discussions about female sexuality and masturbation at a time when these topics were largely taboo. Through her workshops, books, and public speaking engagements, Dodson empowered countless women to take control of their sexual health and pleasure.

Dodson's workshops, known as bodysex groups, were particularly revolutionary. These gatherings provided a safe and supportive environment for women to learn about their bodies, discuss their sexual experiences, and practice masturbation techniques. By demystifying female anatomy and normalizing self-pleasure, Dodson helped to break down barriers of shame and misinformation.

Her book, Sex for One: The Joy of Selfloving, became a seminal work in the field of sex education, offering practical advice and encouragement for individuals to explore their sexuality independently. Dodson's approach was unapologetically frank and celebratory, emphasizing that sexual pleasure is a natural and essential part of life.

Dodson also utilized multimedia, including videos and online content, to reach a broader audience. Her work has left a lasting legacy, inspiring new generations of sex educators and continuing to influence discussions about sexual health and empowerment.