Definitions and Key Thoughts for Sadism and Masochism
Sexual sadism and sexual masochism are two separate psychological disorders and every are categorized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV (DSM-IV) as a paraphilia, which is a sexual disorder characterized by socially unacceptable preoccupations or behaviors (other paraphilias include voyeurism, exhibitionism, and fetishism).
Sadism and masochism are characterized by feelings of pleasure or gratification when inflicting suffering on another person, or having it inflicted upon one’s self, respectively.
The official DSM-IV criteria for sexual sadism are:
Ø Over a period of at least 6 months, recurrent, intense sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving acts (real, not simulated) in which the psychological or physical suffering (including humiliation) of the victim is sexually exciting to the person.
Ø The person has acted on these urges with a non-consenting person, or the sexual urges or fantasies cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulty.
The official DSM-IV criteria for sexual masochism are:
Ø Over a period of at least 6 months, recurrent, intense sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving the act (real, not simulated) of being humiliated, beaten, bound, or otherwise made to suffer.
Ø The fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
The term Sadomasochism is employed to explain either the co-occurrence of sadism and masochism in one individual, or as a replacement for both terms. In 1905, Sigmund Freud described “Sadism” and “Masochism” in his Drei Abhandlungen zur Sexualtheorie (“Three papers on Sexual Theory”) as diseases developing from an incorrect development of the child psyche.
Action Steps and Treatment Plan for Sadism and Masochism
Treatment of sexual sadism or sexual masochism could also be complicated by health problems associated with promiscuous sexual behavior. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and other medical problems may be present.
Note: Acts of sexual sadism or sexual masochism tend to grow more violent or bizarre over time. However, as persons with either disorder get older , their ability or desire to participate in such behaviors begins to decrease. For example, sexual sadism is never diagnosed in men over 50 years aged.
Replace Violent Behaviors
Sadistic behaviors home in terms of their violent nature. Some sadistic behaviors are focused on humiliation and mild pain, while others are aimed toward severe pain. Also, a practicing sadist will either find a willing partner to participate in these behaviors, or will find a sexual victim. They need replace violent behaviors with caring, less violent behaviors.
Focus on Healthy Sexuality
Identifying and that specialize in sexual practices that are gratifying which don't incorporate sadistic or masochistic behaviors will help one to participate in normal sexual behavior. Encouraging and expanding normal sexual practices may be a thanks to use the strengths and assets and tendencies toward normal sexual practices that an individual already has.
Make a Commitment to Change
Even if an individual is fantasizing about sadism or masochism, one can make a conscious commitment to not outwardly participate in such behaviors. Being tempted to do something is not doing it. One method for encouraging this is by helping one see that people are innately valuable and should be treated with respect and even care. This understanding of another person’s value is to supersede any desire to practice violent or humiliating acts against them.
Notice: Please consult your doctor before following any instruction of www.myonlinedoctor.co.in