BDSM stands for various terms. Discover the full forms, meanings, and possible interpretations of BDSM across different fields and industries.
"BDSM" is a widely recognized acronym that stands for "Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, and Sadism and Masochism" in the context of sex and sexuality. It's an umbrella term for a variety of consensual erotic practices and role-playing that involve power dynamics, physical restraints, or the giving and receiving of sensations, including pain. When people search for "BDSM," they're looking for information on "kink," "power play," "erotic role-play," "fetishes," "alternative sexuality," or "consensual non-consent." The core principle of all BDSM activities is enthusiastic consent from all participants, often emphasized by the motto "Safe, Sane, and Consensual" (SSC) or "Risk-Aware Consensual Kink" (RACK).
Each part of BDSM refers to specific practices. "Bondage and Discipline" involves restricting movement (bondage) and enforcing rules or punishments (discipline). "Dominance and Submission" focuses on the consensual exchange of power, where one partner takes a dominant role and the other a submissive one. "Sadism and Masochism" (S&M) involves deriving pleasure from inflicting (sadism) or receiving (masochism) pain or intense sensations, which can be physical or psychological. These practices can be explored in short "scenes" or be part of ongoing lifestyle relationships, always with clear communication and established boundaries, including the use of a "safe word" to stop or pause any activity.
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