Kink Is OK

Psychologists have been using the DSM guide for decades. In practice, it works as an “official” guide to psychological disorders and their treatment. As expected, one of the most debated and reviewed areas is sexuality. For example, fifty years ago, homosexual behavior was seen as a pathology. Similarly, BDSM was once considered an unhealthy practice. However, in the fifth edition of the DSM, the American Psychological Association has finally acknowledged that kink is OK.

The DSM-5 still labels “unusual sexual interests” as paraphilias, meaning that they are not standard behavior. However, there is now a clear distinction between paraphilias and paraphilic disorders. While the former implies unusual sexual behavior, the latter is only recognized when there are undesirable circumstances. These can include lack of consent, abuse, or predatory behavior. Therefore, being kinky within an environment of consent is considered a healthy sexual practice, regardless of the particular kink of the participants.

This is a strong reminder that the right to kink comes with the responsibility of doing it always in a safe, sane, and consensual way, known as SSC. Kink is only wrong when there is abuse in one way or another. Similarly, vanilla sex is also wrong if it’s not consensual.

As a kinky person, you have the right to be unusual, alternative, weird, or whatever you may want to call it. However, you also have the obligation to always secure clear, unambiguous consent and never abuse or show predatory behavior towards your partner(s).

It is essential to note that acceptance within the psychological community does not necessarily translate to social tolerance. Prejudices against kink are still prevalent, even in a society that considers itself tolerant. Nevertheless, recognizing kink as a psychologically healthy behavior is a significant step towards its normalization.