Fetish Education
What is BDSM?
BDSM or bondage, dominance and submission, masochism is a form of erotic roleplay or practices. Many people equate the term to the power exchange from a top and a bottom. It's an umbrella term for a variety of practices; while many self-identify in the subculture, others who engage in BDSM may not include themselves in the community. BDSM can interest some on a casual level while others identify in the lifestyle.
What is involved in BDSM?
The term BDSM is used today in more of a catch-all sense, so there are many combinations of preferences of likes and dislikes. One person might identify as a bottom, and like to be spanked, however does not consider it to be a sexual act, and sees it being more about discipline. Another person might like to be spanked, but does not like to be spanked using a riding crop. Others may not even like spanking at all, and prefer other aspects of BDSM. Because of the many likes and dislikes of people who enjoy BDSM, informed consent of both partners is essential. Informed consent is the process for getting permission from both partners on what sexual/BDSM acts they like to do, and have done to them and what they do not like to do and have done to them. Many people who are involved in BDSM will make lists of what they are and are not into for partners, which is an example informed consent.
Why are people into BDSM?
Every person who plays in BDSM has their own reasons, however, popular to contrary belief, most people into BDSM were not raised in abusive situations. Many people like the feeling of control given or lost, while others are into the feeling they receive from various activities. For some, their reasons, like their bedroom activities, remain private, while others go to leather community celebrations and share their experiences publicly.
Is BDSM safe?
"Safe, Sane, and Consensual" are common principles in the BDSM community. The definitions of "Safe, Sane, and Consensual" (SSC) according to Wikipedia are:
- safe: attempts should be made to identify and prevent risks to health.
- sane: activities should be undertaken in a sane and sensible frame of mind.
- consensual: all activities should involve the full consent of all parties involved.
