Chemical high

Psychology of BDSM

Psychology
of BDSM

Psychology
gateway

(all psychology articles)

Basics

Penetration

Engagement

Consent

Communication

Power

Authority

Control

Trust

Fetish

Defence mechanisms

Mapping motivations to activities

Roles
Top		Bottom
Dominant		Submissive
Master		Slave
Trainer		Trainee
Owner		Property
Mistress
Switch
SAM

Motivations (all motivation articles)

Ecstasy

Subspace

Catharsis

Surrender

Experiencing power

Hotter sex

Recreation

Expiation of guilt

Intimacy and bonding

Physiological outcomes

Chemical high

Unhealthy motivations

Just a bit of fun (not)

Pain (not)

Play versus "deep play" versus work

Transformation of pain into pleasure

The joy of being a top or dominant

Some BDSM activities can trigger a chemical high. Commonly, this is caused by the production and release of endorphins by the body's pituitary gland and hypothalamus in response to excitement, strenuous exercise, and possibly fear. These endorphins create a feelings of floating or well-being and can reduce the brain's awareness of pain.

Here are some BDSM activities which may cause the release of endorphins:

• Extended heavy flogging sessions, both for the bottom and the top,
• Suspension bondage,
• Mind fucks.