You may be quite familiar with the term, or on the other hand, you may have heard it in movies or novels and wonder what it means. The most basic thing you should know is that BDSM is an acronym that refers to various practices or games, generally of a sexual nature: Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism. These practices, in turn, form a subculture or community and are a substantial part of what we call “alternative erotics.”
Let’s briefly explore each of them individually:
Bondage and Discipline
A set of practices that involve restricting movement (such as using handcuffs or ropes) for erotic, sensory, or aesthetic purposes, which can be done to a partner or oneself. Although we often think of ropes when we hear the term, there are numerous other ways to practice bondage that do not involve this specific implement. Additionally, the term “bondage” also refers to the asymmetric relationship of servitude or slavery, although we commonly use it in the former sense.
Discipline, on the other hand, is closely related to the Victorian era and its infamous punishments in schools. It refers to the rules and behaviors used in BDSM in the form of norms, protocols, and punishments that both the Dominant and submissive parties adopt, historically with the Dominant taking on the role of a teacher.
Dominance and submission
Dominance and submission (D/s) practices involve the exchange of power between individuals in a couple or group setting. The Dominant takes control and makes decisions, while the submissive partner submits to their will, always within the boundaries that have been previously negotiated and with safety protocols in place to ensure clear communication and the ability to halt the action at any time. The term “Femdom” refers to a relationship where the woman assumes the Dominant role, and the man takes on the submissive one. Finally, individuals who engage in both Dominant and submissive roles are commonly referred to as switches.
Sadism and Masochism
Sadism and masochism (S/M) practices are erotic practices or games where the sadistic partner derives pleasure from inflicting pain, discomfort, or humiliation upon the masochistic partner, who enjoys receiving it. All of this is always within a safe and consensual framework, with the central pillar being consent, and the ultimate goal being mutual pleasure within a sexual context.
