According to Catholicism, masturbation is a sin. Any sexual action that does not lead to an opportunity of creation of a human life and is outside the union of marriage is considered a sin. In Catholicism, sex is viewed as a sacred act between husband and a wife. Anything that belittles this act to merely personal pleasure is abusing the very purpose of sex.
Now my personal opinion. Masturbation provides an excellent opportunity to get to know yourself better sexually. By experimenting you' re able to get more in tune with your sexual response. Once you discover what works for you, you can articulate or show your partner what turns you on and your confidence as a lover will increase.
Masturbation is not only normal, it offers some very specific health benefits.
Masturbation is simply fun. It feels terrific. Who can resist a regular jolt of orgasmic bliss?
I agree very mucg with storm. The human structural governement of our health arbitration (aka The Docs.) have come to the conclusion that Masturbation is very much a normal thing, let alone a healthy part of a teenagers life. Where I can see where the church may think it is a sin, is where Christ said "To even think lustfully of another person, is like to commit adultry with them." But then again, this could be another one of his hyperbolies, and not to be taken serious. I hope it's the ladder...