04 Dec Practitioners of BDSM Found To Be Psychologically Healthy
Ms. Gemberling
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Tess M. Gemberling, M.A.
Social Psychology Ph.D. Student
Co-Principal Investigator
University of Alabama
Medical Research: What is the background for this study?
Response: Many stereotypes of BDSM (bondage and discipline [B&D], dominance and submission [D/s], sadomasochism [SM],) that can be seen on websites similar to fucked gay xxx, exist; however, research with practitioners suggests these stereotypes are largely unfounded. Preliminary evidence implies BDSM practitioners are psychologically healthy individuals. This study was conducted to further evaluate these results.
Medical Research: What are the main findings?
Response: Along with other findings, the majority of results indicates practitioners are well functioning. Overall, participants are healthy in the mental, emotional, and interpersonal aspects of their lives. In addition, practitioners are often victims of violence but are not perpetrators of violence.
Medical Research: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?
Response: Instead of stereotypes, we propose BDSM be thought of as a specialized interest, enjoyed without detriment. Therefore, practitioners should be treated with respect. For health professionals, this can be enacted by providing medical advice on BDSM practice only when requested by the patient or when unsafe activities are readily apparent. Instead, clinicians should remain focused on the presenting concerns.
Medical Research: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Response: Additional research can provide a more detailed understanding of practitioners’ functioning, such as how victimization relates to mental health. Further, future analyses can compare practitioners to other populations to understand how practitioners relate to others.
Citation:
National Coalition for Sexual Freedom
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Tess M. Gemberling (2015). Practitioners of BDSM Found To Be Psychologically Healthy MedicalResearch.com
Last Updated on December 4, 2015 by Marie Benz MD FAAD