In everyday conversations, the words kink and fetish may be used interchangeably when discussing any sexual desire that may fall outside of mainstream ideas of sexuality. However, there are some noteworthy key differences. The word fetish refers to a sexual interest or fixation on a particular act or object that is absolutely vital for sex in order for a person to achieve sexual fulfillment. In other words, there is a connection to having a psychological need for these items in order to achieve orgasm.
Often times, fetishes can include shoes, certain sex toys, body parts such as feet, nylons, inanimate objects, behaviors, or a soft blanket to name a few. Examples may include impact play, BDSM, rope play, orgasm control, role play, golden showers, etc. Think of kink as the ability to enhance the sexual experience, whereas a fetish is something that is necessary to complete the sexual experience. According to HuffPost , all fetishes are kinks, but not all kinks are fetishes.
For example, what may be a kink for one person within the kink community, could be a fetish for another. Sex Therapist and Sex Educator, Shannon Chavez, states that the developing of fetishes and kinks are reinforced by both sexual arousal and pleasure while engaging in that behavior while we are growing as sexual human beings and learning what brings us pleasure. For example, if you tend to have sex on a soft red blanket, every time you see soft red blankets, your desire may skyrocket.
For example, you can have kinky phone sex, enjoy a kinky fantasy, or use kink during foreplay. There is no right or wrong scenario. Below are some examples of kinks:. Many individuals have interests geared towards kinky, and it is as though each and every one of us has a kink profile as well as an erotic blueprint. There are benefits to exploring this side of ourselves or finding a partner to explore with, if it is something that piques some interest.
For example, it can help you get to know yourself and your needs in a more intimate way, gain empowerment, achieve some sort of emotional relief, and feel some sense of taking back control of your life. The possibilities of exploration are endless. Now, go get kinky, and try to have some fun with it and remain judgment free to yourself and all parties involved. Kate Balestrieri. This inclusive blog is designed to provide a wealth of information and resources for mental health, relationships, and sexuality.
