BDSM, otherwise known as bondage-discipline, dominance-submission, and sadism-masochism, is increasingly becoming a global concept. So lets dispell some bdsm myths. Many couples are starting to accept this private bdsm practice.
Demystifying These BDSM Myths
Today, we aim to use this guide to dispel these myths and instead offer facts that support the truth about BDSM.
1. BDSM Is Merely About Sex
One of the most incredible sex myths in relationships is that people only engage in BDSM because of sex. But this cannot be further from the truth. Sure, sexual encounters are standard occurrences during BDSM. But, nonetheless, the practice offers more than just sexual pleasure.
BDSM offers a community where people can build connections that feel familiar. For instance, the LGBTQI community is internationally connected through BDSM. In addition, BDSM provides a safe space where people can share their power dynamics within a larger group, with consent, of course.
And since we are demystifying sex myths, you should also know that in some form of BDSM, no sexual contact occurs. Instead, some individuals find satisfaction in the nonsexual aspects of BDSM.
2. Only Abnormal People Love BDSM
When you hear about BDSM, whether in movies or real life, you associate the participants with abnormality. Why else would someone prefer getting whipped by a lady dressed in leather as a form of sexual release?
But while the myths will tell you that any person that prefers BDSM is abnormal, the fact is that no mental health condition causes the desire to engage in BDSM. Psychologists also say that the passion for BDSM is not a result of any unpleasant life experience.
In fact, it is believed that the aspect of human diversity causes BDSM. In this case, the fact that different people have diverse needs contributes to the need for a certain percentage of people to engage in BDSM.
3. BDSM Is A Sign Of Trauma
One of the sex myths you should never fall for is that if a person enjoys kink sex, they must be traumatized. Among the most incredible sex myths that support this reasoning is that most victims of childhood trauma or abuse prefer BDSM.
A study done in 2020 determined that most of the people that engaged in BDSM did so because of their personality. Only a tiny portion did have trauma as the cause of their affinity towards BDSM.
But sex myths aside, not all people who experienced childhood trauma came to BDSM, and vice versa. This means that trauma cannot be considered the root cause for liking BDSM. If anything, individuals have found BDSM is a viable remedy for trauma issues.
Sometimes BDSM works as a trauma treatment measure
Because it allows the participants to reclaim their power. Additionally, talking about the sexual experience during therapy makes it easier for the individuals to face their trauma.
4. You Are Either A Dominant Or A Submissive
Sex drive myths can sometimes be true, like there being a submissive and a dominant role among two BDSM partners. Some even believe that if you are submissive in real life, then this is the part you will prefer in BDSM.
Dynamics of being submissive or dominant are not black and white. One person can be both submissive and dominant and still enjoy both roles equally. It is often assumed that the submissive is meant to face humiliation. Since they are slaves to the dominant.
This is not true because the relationship between the dominant and the submissive is very endearing. These two roles are meant to enhance affection, not humiliate one party.
Sex myths are not a new phenomenon.
But the unconventional nature of BDSM makes it easy for many people to make assumptions about the nature of partnerships in this community.
But what you might not realize is that your seemingly harmless handcuff fetish falls under the BDSM category. Next time you are faced with stereotypes about BDSM, take a minute to verify the claim’s authenticity.
What other sex myths have you heard about the BDSM community?
Do you think they are true? Let us know what you think in the comments.