BDSM: who does it and whether to try

What is BDSM

BDSM acronym stands as follows:

• DB - bandage and discipline;
• DS - dominant and submissive (dominance and submission);
• SM - sadomasochism.

Thus, in a general way under the covered BDSM sexual practices, based on the exchange of power and custodial mobility, inflicting pain and humiliation. All at once is not necessary, but one condition is always satisfied: these actions are voluntary.

From here we have many exciting question: who in their right mind would agree to humiliation and torture?

Deviation or not?

In accordance with Diseases (ICD-10) serving International classification considered sadomasochism disorder of sexual preference (it is included in the list of mental disorders and behavior). But recent studies increasingly suggest that people who practice BDSM, do not have any problems with the psyche.

In particular, the studyPsychological Functioning of Bondage / Domination / Sado-Masochism (BDSM) Practitioners 2006 showed that BDSM practitioners suffered from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as the psychological sadism and masochism no longer others. However, indicators of narcissism and symptoms of dissociative disorders in this group were above average.

Nevertheless psychologist Pamela Connolly (Pamela Connolly), which conducted the study, concluded: the view that the basis of BDSM practices is psychopathology is debatable.

extensive studyDemographic and psychosocial features of participants in bondage and discipline, «sadomasochism» or dominance and submission (BDSM): data from a national survey 2008, conducted in Australia, was to find out whether the addiction to BDSM related sexual coercion in the past, as well as other sexual or psychological problems. But this time the connection has not been established.

Scientists came to the conclusion that BDSM - this is simply a sexual interest or sub-culture, the majority of whose adherents were not victims of violence and had no problems in the "normal" sex.

More recent researchPsychological characteristics of BDSM practitionersPublished in 2013, it sought to identify what the psychological characteristics are practicing BDSM. It was found that compared to the rest, they were even more favorable indicators.

For example, these people were less neurotic, more open to new experiences and prone to extraversionAnd felt themselves better off than those in the control group. One drawback they reveal still managed: they were less compliant. It should be noted that the dominant figures were generally better than submissive. And yet scientists have concluded that the BDSM practices should not be seen as a way of manifestation of psychopathology.

From all this, of course, it does not mean that it is BDSM makes people happy or open. What is the effect of the practices revealed the following study.

What are the pros BDSM

American scientists have foundConsensual BDSM Facilitates Role-Specific Altered States of Consciousness: A Preliminary StudyThat people involved in BDSM, reduced levels of psychological stress, improves mood and increases sexual arousal.

But perhaps the most interesting finding them - practitioners enter a state of altered consciousness.

However, feelings dominants and submissives are different. The first fall into a pleasant state of complete concentration on the process and loss of consciousness (due to the merger with the activity). It can be compared with the flow condition described psychologist Mihai Csikszentmihalyi (Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi). Second, on the contrary, a feeling of complete relaxation, peace and a sense of life in the present moment.

In an article for The Guardian study author Brad Sagarin (Brad Sagarin) notedI never tried BDSM? Go on, it's good for you: These conditions are similar to what is called in the BDSM topspeysom and Subspace.

Should I try BDSM

Describe the effect is difficult to deny the appeal. Does this mean that you need to immediately take up the whip?

Of course no. We must understand that in the study involved people who already practice BDSM. That is, most likely, there is a positive effect in those who initially interested in this kind of sexual interaction. Another thing, if you have the appropriate wish or fancy. Then an occasion to reflect on their implementation is.

At the same time we must remember the important condition that the consent of the partner. Many practitioners say that BDSM enhances closeness and trust in the pair. However, this is only possible if people are to specify in advance the boundaries of what is permitted and not violate them.

One last important point. If you only plan to dive into the world of new pleasures, start with something simple and relatively safe: light spanking or simple bindings. So you will be able to understand how you all this and wondering whether you need to move on. And at the same time to avoid unnecessary physical and mental injuries.