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Sexual sadism
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
Sexual sadism consists of intentionally inflicting physical or mental suffering (humiliation, fear) on one's sexual partner in order to stimulate sexual pleasure and orgasm.
Typically, such a person has persistent, constant fantasies in which sexual pleasure develops from causing suffering to their partner, whether they agree to it or not. Minor manifestations of sadism are a common sexual practice; pathology is determined by the degree of expression. Sexual sadism is not rape, but a complex of sexual and violent actions against the victim. Sexual sadism is diagnosed in less than 10% of rapists.
Typically, sadistic sexual behavior occurs between consenting adults. As with masochism, sadism is usually limited and does not cause harm. In some people, this behavior reaches the level of severe consequences. When sadistic behavior occurs with non-consensual partners, sexual sadism is a criminal act and may continue until the sadist is arrested. Sexual sadism is especially dangerous when combined with antisocial personality disorder.
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