BDSM is an umbrella term for Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism. It encompasses a variety of activities that are characterized by consent, communication, and boundaries.
As cultural attitudes shift and BDSM becomes increasingly mainstream, research on these practices is expanding. For sexual health professionals, it is critical to understand this evolving landscape not only at the community or national level, but also globally. This blog reviews recent international studies on BDSM and highlights their implications for clinical and educational practice.
Despite ongoing stigma, research shows that BDSM can provide psychosocial and relational benefits. For professionals, moving beyond stigma and integrating evidence into practice is essential.