Do I Have Sexual Masochism Disorder?

Over a period of at least 6 months, did you experience recurrent and intense sexual arousal from the act of being humiliated, beaten, bound or otherwise made to suffer, as manifested by fantasies, urges or behaviors?

Do the fantasies, sexual urges or behaviors cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have sexual masochism disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have sexual masochism disorder, you are displaying a sign related to it. It may be useful to plan a visit to your doctor. Sexual masochism is a disorder characterized as reaching sexual satisfaction from engaging in or fantasizing about being made to suffer (being humiliated, bound, beaten). To receive a diagnosis for the disorder, you also need to experience social or psychological problems (e.g., guilt, anxiety, shame) because of the sexually masochistic behavior. Sexually masochistic behavior is typically evident in early adulthood. In some cases, it can start during childhood.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have sexual masochism disorder. Seeking medical support for your symptoms is essential. Treatment for this type of disorder usually includes psychotherapy and medication. With psychotherapy, you will learn to detect cognitive distortions and how to restrict them (i.e., correcting beliefs that may lead you to act on harmful thoughts). Additionally, the therapist will teach you to manage sexual urges and desires in a different, healthier way. Medications can be used to decrease the level of testosterone in the body and therefore reduce the frequency of erections. Antidepressants can also help to reduce sex drive.