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Masochism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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masochism

[ˈmæs.ə.kɪ.zəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

psychological condition

Masochism is a psychological condition where an individual derives pleasure from experiencing pain or humiliation. This phenomenon can manifest in various forms, including sexual pleasure derived from physical pain or emotional suffering. Masochism is often discussed in the context of BDSM, where participants may engage in consensual acts of pain for mutual enjoyment. It is important to note that masochism should be distinguished from self-harm, as the former is consensual and often involves a clear understanding between partners. The term is named after the Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, whose works featured themes of submission and pain.

Synonyms

pain enjoyment, pleasure in suffering, self-destructive behavior.

Examples of usage

  • His masochism surfaced during their intimate moments.
  • They explored masochism as part of their sexual relationship.
  • Masochism can be a complex topic in psychology.
  • Many books discuss the nuances of masochism.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • It is often studied in psychology as part of understanding human sexuality and relationships.
  • Some studies suggest that consensual experiences can lead to positive emotional outcomes, including trust and intimacy.
  • Experts differentiate between masochism as a kink and non-consensual behaviors, emphasizing the importance of consent in such activities.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous films and books explore themes of masochism, such as 'Fifty Shades of Grey,' which popularized BDSM culture.
  • Music and art often depict masochistic themes, creating a lasting impact in contemporary culture.
  • Celebrities have openly discussed their preferences, encouraging dialogue about sexuality and personal boundaries.

Historically Significant Cases

  • Masochism has been recorded throughout history in various cultures, often tied to rituals and rites of passage.
  • Historical figures, including some ancient philosophers, pondered the relationship between pain, pleasure, and enlightenment.
  • Literary characters, from ancient myth to modern narratives, have represented masochistic tendencies, reflecting societal views on pain.

Sociocultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures perceive pain and pleasure uniquely, affecting how masochism is experienced and understood.
  • In many societies, discussions around masochism challenge conventional narratives of sexuality and power dynamics.
  • Community events focused on BDSM explore the balance of power and the importance of consent, fostering understanding in a safe environment.

Origin of 'masochism'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'masochism' comes from the name of Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, a 19th-century author who wrote about pleasure from pain.
  • Coined by psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebing in 1886, it described the sexual satisfaction derived from pain or humiliation.
  • The word has associations with literature and the exploration of complex relationships in fiction, impacting how people understand desire.

The word 'masochism' originates from the name of the 19th-century Austrian novelist Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, who is best known for his erotic novels that depicted themes of submission and pain in sexual relationships. The term was first coined in the 1880s by psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebing in his work 'Psychopathia Sexualis', where he classified various sexual practices and paraphilias. Sacher-Masoch's literary works often featured protagonists who sought out pleasure through suffering, which led to the association of his name with this psychological condition. Over time, masochism has evolved to encompass a broader understanding within the fields of psychology and sexual health, and it is often explored within the larger context of BDSM practices.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,061, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.