Are there scientific sources about BDSM?

“Are there scientific sources about BDSM?” was written for BDSMforyou.nl by Mistress Moriah.

Of course, I can very easily shout from the rooftops how normal BDSM is, how beautiful, intense and natural it all is. That in BDSM everything revolves around balance, and that research has shown that people who practise BDSM have, on average, a higher level of openness and self-awareness. But then I regularly get the question: "Has any research actually been done on that?" And then I usually say: "Yes, of course, but not very much." And then I'm left tongue-tied when someone asks about those studies, because I don't know them off the top of my head (and I'm not going to learn them by heart either). So, here is a list of scientific sources, for anyone who wants to lend more credibility to their words.

Of course, you can also simply link to this page. That's really easy!

The psychology of BDSM

Personality traits

Research has shown that people who practise BDSM have, on average, a higher level of openness and self-awareness. Some studies also suggest that participants often show above-average emotional stability, particularly dominant partners.

Source: Wismeijer, A. A., & van Assen, M. A. (2013). "Psychological characteristics of BDSM practitioners." The Journal of Sexual Medicine.

Stress and wellbeing

Taking part in consensual BDSM activities can reduce stress and increase feelings of connection. This is often attributed to the creation of safe, controlled environments in which participants feel free to express vulnerability.

Source: Sagarin, B. J., Cutler, B., Cutler, N., Lawler-Sagarin, K. A., & Matuszewich, L. (2009). "Hormonal changes and couple bonding in consensual sadomasochistic activity." Archives of Sexual Behavior.

Sociological studies

Community building

BDSM communities are often studied as subcultures in which norms and values take centre stage, such as communication, mutual respect and consent. Researchers examine how these norms are upheld and passed on within these groups.

Source: Newmahr, S. (2011). "Playing on the Edge: Sadomasochism, Risk, and Intimacy." Indiana University Press.

Stigma and acceptance

There is research into the social perception of BDSM and the influence of stigma on participants' identity formation. This touches on themes such as coming out, shame and social acceptance.

Source: Bezreh, T., Weinberg, T. S., & Edgar, T. (2012). "BDSM disclosure and stigma management: Identifying opportunities for sex education." American Journal of Sexuality Education.

Biological and neurological aspects

Endorphins and hormones

Researchers have looked at hormonal responses during BDSM sessions, such as elevated levels of endorphins and oxytocin. These responses contribute to feelings of euphoria, connection and stress reduction.

Source: Holvoet, L., Huys, W., Coppens, V., Dewaele, A., et al. (2017). "Fifty Shades of Belgian Gray: The Prevalence of BDSM-Related Fantasies and Activities in the General Population." Journal of Sex Research.

Legal and ethical questions

Researchers in legal studies and ethics examine how BDSM practices are regulated in terms of legislation around consent and bodily integrity. There are debates about how consensual violence within BDSM should be interpreted legally.

Source: Millbank, J. (2015). "Rethinking consent: Non-conventional sexual practices and the law." Australian Feminist Law Journal.

Sexology and clinical studies

BDSM is increasingly less often pathologised in psychology. Research indicates that BDSM is not a sign of mental disorders, but rather a variation within normal sexual preferences.

Source: American Psychiatric Association (2013). Removal of BDSM as a disorder in the DSM-5.

Finding these studies

Many of these studies can be found in academic journals such as:

• The Journal of Sexual Medicine

• Archives of Sexual Behavior

• Journal of Sex Research

You can get access to these sources through university libraries, platforms such as ResearchGate, or paid databases such as PubMed or SpringerLink.

Mistress Moriah

Source

Text: Mistress Moriah
Illustration: BDSMforyou