Masochism is a sexual disorder. People who have this disorder are sexually excited by being shamed or being made to suffer. They seek partners to tie them up, shame, blindfold, or hurt them. They may enjoy being whipped, beaten, shocked, cut, or pierced. Other acts involve being controlled, such as making them crawl or keeping them in a cage. Verbal abuse is common.
The exact cause of this disorder is not known. Experts think it may be caused by differences in the brain or nervous system. It might also be related to things such as child abuse or a family history of mental illness. The disorder commonly begins in early adulthood, although masochistic fantasies often occur during childhood.
People who have this disorder may always need to suffer pain or shame in order to function sexually. Or they may have normal sex at some times and masochistic sex at other times. Their sexual excitement is directly related to how much their partner makes them suffer. Masochists often seek out sadists (people who are sexually excited by causing suffering) as sexual partners.
Your health care provider will ask about your symptoms, relationships, medical history, and substance abuse history. He or she will also ask whether you or someone close to you has a history of mental illness. Your provider may also do a physical exam and order tests to rule out medical conditions as a cause of your symptoms.
Insight-oriented psychotherapy helps people to understand the reasons for their behavior. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a way to help identify and change thoughts that are not realistic. CBT can make people aware of unhealthy ways of thinking. It can also help them learn new thought and behavior patterns.
If your symptoms are seriously interfering with your daily life, seek help from your health care provider or a mental health professional. For more information, contact the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) or the National Mental Health Association (NMHA).
Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File BHV3339F.HTM Release 9.0/2006
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