Asked by Kayla Marie on Feb 18, 2024

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Explain why mild sadistic and masochistic sexual activity between consenting adults does not warrant a diagnosis of sexual sadism or sexual masochism disorder.

Diagnosis

Label given to a set of symptoms that tend to occur together.

  • Recognizing the importance of consent and communication: In consensual activities, participants establish and maintain open lines of communication, discussing their desires, limits, and boundaries. This emphasis on consent and communication helps ensure that all parties involved are comfortable and safe, further distinguishing it from a disorder.
  • Considering the absence of distress or impairment: Sexual sadism and sexual masochism disorder are diagnosed when the individual experiences significant distress or impairment due to their sexual preferences or behaviors. In the case of mild consensual activities, there is typically an absence of distress or impairment, as participants engage in these activities willingly and without negative consequences.
  • Understanding the difference between consensual and non-consensual activities: Consenting adults engage in mild sadistic and masochistic sexual activities by mutual agreement and with clear boundaries. This distinguishes it from sexual sadism or sexual masochism disorder, which involves non-consensual acts that cause distress or harm to oneself or others.
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Dominik AireyFeb 18, 2024
Final Answer :
Key terms and concepts that may be included in student responses include:
▪ Some people occasionally engage in mild or moderately sadistic or masochistic behaviors during sex or simulate such behaviors without actually carrying through with the infliction of pain or suffering
▪ These people probably would not be given a diagnosis, especially if their behaviors occur in the context of a trusting relationship in which boundaries have been set and safety measures are in place (e.g., having a "safe word" that, when uttered by either partner, stops the behavior).
▪ This is a good example of sexuality along the continuum, as well as the challenges in defining abnormality in the sexual disorders (Beech et al., 2016).