Perspectives on Pleasure and Pain: Deconstructing Contemporary BDSM Theories and Developing an Interdisciplinary Framework of Empowerment - Anna Segal (Dissertation thesis)

 

Abstract
This dissertation seeks to develop a new theoretical framework through which to understand the experiences of BDSM practitioners and communities. BDSM is an overlapping acronym for bondage/discipline, domination/submission, and
sadomasochism, and functions in a broad variety of ways for individual practitioners. This paper critically examines a range of literature and key theoretical concepts related to BDSM, and identifies some key issues facing researchers. Through an interdisciplinary approach to the topic, borrowing from literature related to other marginalised and stigmatised identities and
sexualities, this thesis argues for an open and affective understanding of BDSM experiences. Examining key themes of power, sexuality, and community, this paper calls for the rejections of binary and heteronormative notions, and the
acceptance and celebration of subjective lived experience.