BDSM/fetichismo e relações amorosas

Abstract

BDSM and Fetishist practices have come to be viewed scientifically as a variant of human sexuality. In the present work, we intended to contribute in this area considering the meanings and experiences about BDSM/Fetish practices and their interrelationship within romantic relationships. A convenience sample of 87 adults practicing or interested in BDSM, completed online survey that used a participatory research, thematic analysis, a set of open questions for qualitative analysis and questions of socio-demographic scope. The participants had an average age of 33,02 (SD= 9,63), with university qualifications and a majority metropolitan area of Lisbon, Porto and Setúbal. The results demonstrate that there are multiple expectations about how to interact sexually with partners. These expectations are complex and can lead to the termination of the love relationship by feelings of frustration grounded in stigma. The study demonstrates the importance of this dimension of sexuality for the well-being of individuals with BDSM / Fetish practices and interests and how the different relational dynamics allow us to deal with the incompatibility of interests. The lack of positive social representations seems to potentiate stigma over BDSM / Fetish practitioners. Future studies with practitioners and non-practitioners may help to clarify how monogamy and romantic love are represented and negotiated in the presence of divergent interests.

Date of Award	2019
Original language	Portuguese
Supervisor	Daniel Cardoso (Supervisor) & Patrícia M. Pascoal (Supervisor)