A glimpse into the disorder of sadomasochism as well as an overview of paraphilias in general.
This paper analyzes how paraphilias are sexual disorders that are often overlooked as simply kinky ideas and why they often lead to life-interference and even physical harms. It discusses how sadomasochism (SM), a sexual practice involving physical or psychological pain that is deliberately induced for pleasure, is one such disorder. It examines the psychology behind the disorder and how drug treatment and cognitive-behavioral therapy have both been shown to have positive results in treating it as well as multifaceted treatment including individual, group and family counseling as well as collaboration with the judicial system. When the public awareness of SM and all paraphilias increases, hopefully treatment options will increase and the stigma on people with sexual dysfunctions will be lowered.
“There is no specific age when sadomasochistic behavior begins to occur, though it has been hypothesized to emerge in the late teens and early twenties. It is likely that sexual fantasies were present in childhood and most people are diagnosed in early adulthood. Though sadomasochism rarely interferes with daily activities, it greatly interferes with sexual relationships. It should also be noted that because of the nature of sadism, sadist are more prone to commit rape. Unfortunately, sadomasochism is usually chronic. Most people may repeat the same sadomasochistic act for years with out increasing potential serious injury. However, when this potential is increased it is likely to end in death.”