Masochism / Masochist

Masochism refers to an interest in receiving intensity, controlled discomfort, or pain within a consensual BDSM context. A masochist is someone who may use that label for themselves. The term is not a diagnosis, and it does not imply a wish to be harmed, coerced, or treated without care.

Masochism is often discussed alongside Sadism / Sadist, but the terms describe different positions and do not require one another. What matters in any dynamic is informed consent, honest discussion of limits, and the ability to change one’s mind.