Unravelling intersecting identities: understanding the lives of people who practice BDSM

ABSTRACT

The BDSM community comprises a diverse group of individuals who engage in bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadomasochism, among other practices associated with role play, fetishes and leather. To date, there remains a limited amount of literature and research surrounding the personal and professional lives of those who practice BDSM, along with subsequent implications for health and mental health practitioners. A mixed method online survey was conducted to examine the lives and experiences of individuals who practice BDSM. A total of 63 participants, predominately white, North American, heterosexually identified and college educated responded to the survey. Main qualitative themes included the following: (1) role of various intersecting identities; (2) openness and disclosure of BDSM identity; and (3) shame, empowerment and resilience. Results will be presented from a systemic and strengths-based perspective to help create a clearer understanding of this uniquely diverse community while also providing implications for practitioners in the field.

KEYWORDS:

• BDSM
• identity
• disclosure
• stigma
• practice

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Cassandra Damm

Cassandra Damm is a therapist at Lifeworks Psychotherapy and a board member of the Sex Workers Outreach Project's Chicago chapter. Cassandra specializes in issues related to mental health, gender, and sexuality.

Michael P. Dentato

Michael P. Dentato is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago where his research and scholarship focuses on LGBTQ health and health disparities.

Nikki Busch

Nikki Busch is a graduate student at Loyola University Chicago where she is pursuing a dual degree in social work and women studies and gender studies.