The term BDSM is first recorded in a Usenet post from 1991, and is interpreted as a combination of the abbreviations B/D (Bondage and Discipline), D/s (Dominance and submission), and S/M (Sadism and Masochism). BDSM is now used as a catch-all phrase covering a wide range of activities, forms of interpersonal relationships, and distinct subcultures. The terms submissive and dominant are often used to distinguish these roles: the dominant partner ('dom') takes psychological control over the submissive ('sub').īDSM communities generally welcome anyone with a non-normative streak who identifies with the community this may include cross-dressers, body modification enthusiasts, animal roleplayers, rubber fetishists, and others.Īctivities and relationships in BDSM are often characterized by the participants' taking on roles that are complementary and involve inequality of power thus, the idea of informed consent of both the partners is essential. The terms top and bottom are also used the top is the instigator of an action while the bottom is the receiver of the action.
