Fetishism Sexual Disorder
Fetishism Information
Fetishistic arousal is generally considered a problem when it interferes with normal sexual or social functioning and where sexual arousal is impossible without the fetish object. The fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
This is consistent with the theory that fetishism derives from behavioural imprinting in early childhood, a phenomenon which is not only supported by anecdotal evidence in humans, but can be demonstrated experimentally in other animal species.
The object of a fetish is almost invariably used during masturbation and may also be incorporated into sexual activity with a partner in order to produce sexual excitation.
Causes of Fetishism
The causes of Fetishism are not clear.
Some learning theorists believe that it develops from early childhood experiences, in which an object was associated with a particularly powerful form of sexual arousal or gratification.
- Genetics
- Early environmental factors
- Social/cultural factors
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Symptoms of Fetishism
The sexual acts of fetishists are characteristically depersonalized and objectified, with the focus being exclusively on the fetish.
Fetishism is characterized by -
- intense sexually arousing fantasies,
- The fetish objects are not articles of clothing used in cross-dressing as in transvestite fetishism and are not designed for tactile genital stimulation such as a vibrator.
- urges, or behaviors in which the individual uses a nonliving object in a sexual manner.
Fetishism Treatment and Medication
Treatment typically involves psychotherapy aimed at uncovering and working through the underlying cause of the behavior.
Women's Health
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