Exploring the impact of perceived parenting, interparental dynamics, and childhood traumatic experience on BDSM interests

Abstract:There is growing scientific interest in understanding the psychological and biological mechanisms underlying preferences for BDSM (Bondage/Discipline, Dominance/Submission, and Sadism/Masochism). However, little research has assessed the influence of perceived parenting styles on healthy sexual interests and behavior and how early-life experiences relate to adult BDSM interests. In the current study, we focus on the possible influence of experienced parenting style, perceived interparental dynamics, and childhood traumatic experience on BDSM interest. A cross-sectional survey was conducted by use of an online questionnaire in BDSM-interested individuals (n = 263; 51% cis-women, 46% cis-men, 3% other) and non-BDSM controls (n = 300; 50% cis-women, 50% cis-men). The questionnaire included the Parental Acceptance and Rejection Questionnaire-short form, an adapted Dutch Relationship Questionnaire, and self-developed questions assessing traumatic childhood events. BDSM participants reported more often authoritarian parenting styles, characterized by high parental control and low levels of warmth and affection. Interparental relationship differed significantly, mainly driven by lower interparental independence in families of BDSM individuals. Physical (11% versus 6%) and emotional abuse (18% versus 12%) were also more common among BDSM participants. These findings suggest that the BDSM group perceived more controlling parenting styles and unequal parental power dynamics compared to individuals in the control group. They also reported more physical and emotional abuse than did controls, while reports on sexual abuse and neglect were very low in both groups. Future research is needed to confirm or nuance the causality of these associations, ultimately contributing to BDSM destigmatization.

Publication year:2025

Keywords:Psychology, Psychology & behavioral sciences, community & social issues

Accessibility:Embargoed