A new wave of psychological research defies stereotypes, revealing that people who practice BDSM—an umbrella term for bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism, and masochism—actually demonstrate more secure attachment styles and lower levels of neuroticism than the general population, according to a recent study reported by PsyPost. The findings challenge widespread misconceptions about BDSM participants and suggest their emotional and psychological well-being may, in certain respects, surpass that of non-practitioners.
For years, BDSM practices have often been misunderstood or pathologized, both in the media and popular culture. This new research draws from robust psychological models to examine fundamental aspects of personality, specifically focusing on attachment theory—a framework that explores how people form secure or insecure emotional bonds—and neuroticism, a personality trait associated with emotional instability, anxiety, and negative emotions. By investigating these factors in BDSM practitioners, the study seeks to clarify whether engaging in these consensual activities is linked with psychological health or distress.
Researchers collected extensive self-report data from a large, diverse sample of adults, comparing BDSM practitioners and non-practitioners using established psychological inventories for personality and attachment. The results were striking: BDSM participants reported higher rates of secure attachment, indicating trust and comfort in emotional bonds, and notably lower rates of neuroticism, suggesting greater emotional stability and resilience. These findings were consistent across different genders, age groups, and levels of involvement in BDSM activities.
A psychologist unaffiliated with the study explained, “Secure attachment tends to foster self-confidence and openness in intimate relationships. Seeing these patterns more prevalent among BDSM practitioners suggests their communities may cultivate, or perhaps attract, individuals with higher relational maturity.” Another expert noted, “The lower neuroticism scores contradict the stigma that equates sexual diversity with psychological issues. Instead, it appears that consensual exploration within healthy boundaries might even be beneficial.”
In the context of Thai society, where discussions of sexuality can be taboo and BDSM is often relegated to the margins, these results are particularly illuminating. Local psychologists emphasize the need for culturally sensitive education about sexual diversity. “Many Thais still misunderstand alternative sexual practices. Studies like this help counter the myths that all non-mainstream sexuality is linked to trauma or instability,” said a Thai clinical psychologist at a leading Bangkok hospital. While explicit BDSM communities may be less visible in Thailand compared to some Western countries, anecdotal reports indicate a slow-growing acceptance among younger, urban populations influenced by global trends and social media networks.
These findings mark a historical shift. For decades, the classification of BDSM as a psychiatric disorder in major diagnostic manuals—echoed by Thailand’s own medical community—influenced public perceptions and even legal decisions. Only recently have international and Thai medical societies started to recognize consensual BDSM as a legitimate form of sexual expression, provided it is practiced safely and without coercion. This research is likely to accelerate the change in both professional and popular attitudes.
Looking ahead, experts anticipate that ongoing research will further explore why BDSM practitioners report higher relationship security and stability. Some hypothesize that the high value placed on communication, consent, and boundaries in BDSM communities creates a supportive environment that nurtures secure attachment. Others call for longitudinal studies and qualitative research with Thai participants to understand whether these benefits persist across different cultural contexts.
For Thai readers, the practical takeaway is clear: when practiced consensually and within mutually agreed boundaries, BDSM does not reflect psychological dysfunction—in fact, it may even signal emotional health and stronger relationships. As Thai society continues to modernize and embrace sexual diversity, experts recommend open-minded dialogue, fact-based education, and access to professional counseling that is LGBTQ- and kink-affirmative, enabling everyone to explore intimacy in ways that promote happiness and mental well-being.