In Jain Dharma, the clear guidance is: you should avoid masturbation as much as possible.

Why, according to Jainism?

Jainism teaches:

• Brahmacharya (celibacy / control of sexual desire) is one of the main vows.
• Sex driven only by pleasure (without need for dharma-based family life) increases:

- Kaam (lust) - Raag (attachment) - Kashay (passions like greed, anger, deceit, pride)

• These disturb the mind, increase dependence on the body, and become a cause of new karmas.

For:

• Monks / Nuns (Sadhu–Sadhvi) – Complete celibacy is absolutely mandatory. Any form of sexual activity, including masturbation, is a serious violation.
• Shravak / Shravika (householders) – Limited sexual life is allowed only:

- with one’s married partner, - with self-control, - without addiction and perversion.

Masturbation is seen as:

• Unnecessary indulgence in sensual pleasure
• Strengthening of negative thoughts and imaginations
• Wasting mental and spiritual energy that could be used for sadhana (spiritual practice)

Practically, what should you do?

• Try to reduce and stop this habit gradually.
• Avoid triggers:

- vulgar content, certain social media, staying alone idle, late-night browsing, etc.

• Engage your mind in:

- Swadhyay (scripture study) - Jaap (mantra chanting) - Samayik, Pratikraman, meditation

• Keep good routine: proper sleep, exercise, satsang, seva.

If you are struggling

Jainism is strict in principle but compassionate in practice. If you slip:

• Do alochana–pratikraman (accept your mistake in front of Dev–Guru–Dharma)
• Resolve: “I will reduce and avoid this from now on.”
• Focus on progress, not guilt: slowly gain more control over thoughts and senses.

In summary, according to Jain Dharma, masturbation is not recommended and should be avoided, aiming toward higher self-control and purity of mind.