“To Know Thyself”: a Qualitative Exploration of Motivating Factors for BDSM and Kink Participants Who Hold Dominant Identities

Abstract Introduction The motivations behind a person’s involvement in BDSM are widely misunderstood, which further perpetuates stigma towards those who engage in BDSM or are a part of the community. Prior work suggests that BDSM engagement in general may function as self-help for people in the community (Beckmann, 2001). Media portrayals of Dominant roles, however, are often harmful misrepresentations of BDSM lifestyles and practices as being abusive. Methods We collected online interviews completed by people with Dominant roles and identities to assess themes related to motivations specifically related to their self-identified role. Participants were asked ten free-response questions regarding their motivations and experiences. The current study evaluated the themes present among 32 participants reporting Dominant identities. Results We found that participants’ descriptions of their motivations for being a Dominant consistently referred to five themes: upbringing and past experience; identity versus practice; control and power exchange; connection, fulfillment, and self-expression; and individual and community values. Conclusions The current study shows complex motivating factors for participants to engage with or identify as Dominant, opening potential directions of exploration to understand the development of specific kink and BDSM identities and experiences. Policy Implications Members of the BDSM community, particularly those who identify as Dominants, hold distinct roles and identities that call for deeper scholarly understanding. Contrary to common misconceptions, Dominant people are not abusive; rather, their practices are guided by principles of informed consent, respect, and caregiving. Increased education and accurate representation are essential to eliminate misinformation regarding Dominance within BDSM dynamics.