Gus Stevenson

This article, published in the Sept. 1999 issue of Pshchology Now, discusses the psychological effects of sadomasochism. Sadomasochism, or S&M, is defined as "an activity involving the temporary creation of highly unbalanced power dynamics between two or more people for erotic or semi-erotic purposes." There are several reasons why people participate in S&M.

One reason being that it offers an emotional release for some people that they can't get from ordinary sex. Another being that it can act as a bridge to one's sexual desires. For example, if a girl is taught to be ashamed of herself as a child, she might grow up with a need for separation for her looks or desires as an adult. S&M may help eliminate that separation. Bound and chained, and at the master's will, she would be forced to become entirely sexual. It would help her connect with her sexual self in a way difficult to attain with traditional sex.

It can also be a way to separate one from oneself. With all of the demands placed on the individual, sometimes people need to "escape". Some people turn to S&M in order to temporarily suspend their normal identity and reality, and act and feel in ways they could not at other times.

Until recently, S&M was considered to be a pathology. It was only within the last few decades that psychologists began to learn its potential psychological value.

I am glad that psychologists are beginning to understand this phenomenon, and that the people who participate in it are no longer looked upon as sick or mentally ill. We all have little parts of our personality that might seem a little strange to other people. That doesn't necessarily make us weird, just different. And in this fast-paced society we live in, a little play every once in a while doesn't seem like such a bad idea.

Sadomasochism, once viewed as pathological, is now being considered as normal, even healthy. Reasons people participate in it include connection to one's body and self, temporary detachment from one's normal self and reality, or just simply being born to enjoy such activity. It is finally being viewed as simply a part of the continuum of sexuality and sexual behavior.

Works Cited

Apostolides, Marianne. "The PLEASURE of the PAIN Why Some People Need S & M," Psychology Now. Sept, 1999

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