Consent in vanilla and BDSM sexual encounters : conceptualization, violations, and repercussions

Abstract

This mixed-methods thesis examined the consent process, consent violations, and repercussions of consent violations in BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Domination, Submission, and Sadomasochism). In Study 1, the impacts of practicing in an organized BDSM community and an interest in sexual sadism on consent violation victimization and perpetration were examined in three distinct groups: members of the general population, BDSM practitioners not attached to an organized BDSM community, and BDSM practitioners attached to an organized BDSM community. Results of Study 1 suggested that while practicing in an BDSM community was not protective against consent violations, an interest in sexual sadism was positively associated with consent violation perpetration. Study 2 built on the findings of Study 1 by exploring how consent is negotiated and how consent violations are dealt with in BDSM communities through open-ended survey questions. Results of Study 2 demonstrated that standard practices exist for negotiating consent and managing consent violations. Furthermore, stigma serves as a significant barrier to reporting consent violations both inside and outside BDSM communities. The implications of these findings and future directions for research are discussed.