Sadomasochistic

Sadomasochism is a sexual behavior that involves the giving and receiving of pain and humiliation for sexual pleasure. It is often abbreviated as S&M or SM and is part of the broader category of BDSM, which also includes bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, and sadism and masochism.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Sadomasochism is a portmanteau of the terms sadism and masochism, which were coined by the 19th century psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebing. Sadism refers to deriving pleasure from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others, while masochism refers to deriving pleasure from one's own pain or humiliation.

Psychological perspectives[edit | edit source]

From a psychological perspective, sadomasochism is considered a paraphilia, a type of sexual deviance. However, many practitioners of sadomasochism do not meet the clinical criteria for a diagnosis of sexual sadism or sexual masochism disorder, as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Legal status[edit | edit source]

The legal status of sadomasochistic practices varies widely around the world. In some jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom, sadomasochistic activities are considered assault even if they are consensual. In other jurisdictions, such as the United States, sadomasochistic activities are generally legal as long as they are consensual and do not cause serious injury.

See also[edit | edit source]

Sadomasochistic Resources
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