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In human sexuality, kinkiness is the use of sexual practices, concepts or Sexual fantasy that are not Conventional sex. The term derives from the idea of a "bend" (cf. a "kink") in one's sexual behaviour, to contrast such behaviour with "straight" or "Vanilla sex" sexual mores and proclivities. It is thus a colloquial term for non-normative sexual behaviour. The term "kink" has been claimed by some who practice sexual fetishism as a term or synonym for their practices, indicating a range of sexual and sexualistic practices from playful to sexual objectification and certain . In the 21st century the term "kink," along with expressions like BDSM, leather and sexual fetish, has become more commonly used than the term paraphilia. Some universities also feature student organizations focused on kinks, within the context of wider LGBTQ concerns.
Kink sexual practices go beyond what are considered conventional sexual practices as a means of heightening the intimacy between sexual partners. Some draw a distinction between kink and fetishism, defining the former as enhancing partner intimacy, and the latter as replacing it. Because of its relation to conformity sexual boundaries, which themselves vary by time and place, the definition of what is and is not a kink varies widely as well.
Kinks can also be engaged in non-sexually. In one study, up to 35% of participants highly involved in BDSM said it was primarily non-sexual for them. Additionally, people who identify as asexual sometimes engage in kink.
A study in Czech Republic in 2020 found, in a nationally representative sample of 10,044 adults, 31.3% of men and 13.6% of women reported at least one paraphilic preference. Common interests included voyeurism, fetishism, and masochism. Men were more likely to report paraphilic preferences and behaviors overall.Bártová, K., Androvičová, R., Krejčová, L., Weiss, P., & Klapilová, K. (2020). The Prevalence of Paraphilic Interests in the Czech Population: Preference, Arousal, the Use of Pornography, Fantasy, and Behavior. The Journal of Sex Research
In 2024, survey of 1,236 adults (18–50) in Switzerland found that 46.4% of respondents reported at least one paraphilic interest, with masochism and sexual sadism being the most common. Younger and male respondents had higher prevalence rates.Baier, D. (2024). Paraphilic Interests in the Swiss Population: Results of a Representative Survey in the Canton of Zurich. Journal of Psychosexual Health
Another aspect that should be considered when engaging in kinky behavior is the risk of contracting HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus). This is especially prominent in the LGBTQ+ communities as same sex relations are more prone to HIV compared to heterosexual relations. Forms to reduce the risk of HIV include the use of condoms, minimizing the number of sexual partners, and using PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis).
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Cause
Speculation on the cause of kinks has implicated biological, psychological and social origins. It is sometimes assumed that kinks (particularly masochism) are the result of trauma or childhood abuse; however, research has shown that kink participants have slightly lower rates of childhood abuse and trauma than the general population.
Precautions
Despite kinks being used for pleasure and enjoyment, there are some precautions people must take when participating in these actions. Especially with the rise of kinks and sexuality within recent years, this concerns young adolescents as they are more prone to indulging in risky sexual behavior. When referring to kinky behavior, it's suggested and implied that sexual practices are being conducted, which include but are not limited to: BDSM, sexual and erotic behavior, fetishes, and more. Before conducting any of those behaviors, it's recommended to ask and verify for consent from all involved parties. To verify all acts are being done with consent, more information can be found by learning more about SSC (Safe, Sane, and Consensual) and RACK (Risk-Aware Consensual Kink). After having the consent from the other participating party members, it's also recommended to have a Safeword in place. This allows for any action to stop if a person feel it's getting out of hand.
See also
Further reading
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