This document summarizes a lecture about the biological science of BDSM. It discusses the different climates present in BDSM like fear, pain, and humiliation. It then explains how neurochemicals like dopamine, prolactin, cortisol, and oxytocin influence these climates and BDSM experiences. There is also a discussion of the endorphin levels theory, which proposes a correlation between endorphin levels and dominant/submissive reactions during a scene. The importance of aftercare is noted for resolving neurochemical experiences at an emotional and physical level.
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The Science of BDSM
1. THE SCIENCE OF BDSM
Synners Haven Club
Sadhaka Mel Resident, BDSM Specialist
2. OUTLINE
This lecture examines the biological side of BDSM. It assumes you have a
basic understanding of BDSM in some manner. There will be about 20
minutes of lecture followed by directed discussion on personal experiences
(not a scientific/technical discussion).
The Science in the Climates of BDSM
Neurochemicals & BDSM
Endorphin Levels Theory
A Note on Aftercare
Questions to Discuss
3. THE SCIENCE IN THE
CLIMATES OF BDSM
There are several climates present in BDSM.
Fear varied practices, punishment, new experiences, failure, broken trust
Pain primarily sadomasochistic practices, emotional release
Humiliation primarily psychological/mental practices, emotional release
4. NEUROCHEMICALS & BDSM
Neurochemicals are body chemicals that focus on nervous system functions. This
can include regulating thoughts and emotions as well as pain reflexes.
Dopamine - influences thought, movement, motivation, learning and reward-
seeking behavior; also a factor in sexual arousal
Prolactin hormone; responsible for both sexual gratification (orgasm) &
sexual refractory (let down) Cortisol hormone; kick-starts your response to
fear and pain
Oxytocin peptide hormone; responsible for human bonding; increases
feelings of love and caring
Endorphins transmits stress, danger, excitement, orgasm, and pain signals
Each of these neurochemicals have an influence of BDSM climates.
5. ENDORPHIN LEVELS THEORY
There is a theory within the BDSM Community that there is direct correlation between
endorphin levels and Dom(me)/sub reactions during a scene. The chart below will explain:
Level Dom(me) Reaction Sub Reaction
One Mild focused on anticipation None waiting to see what
happens, pain reaction, endorphin
reserves on standby
Two Mild waiting for noticeable Mild body beginning to react, pain
submissive reaction threshold increasing
Three Mild/Moderate reacting to Moderate beginning of subspace
submissive
Four Moderate/Extreme - further Moderate/Extreme true subspace
reactions to submissive
Five Varies reacting to submissive, Extreme ecstasy and subdrop on
thinking ahead to aftercare rapid succession
6. A NOTE ON AFTERCARE
Aftercare is extremely important for both the Dominant & submissive. It
usually involves more intimate behavior such as cuddling, hugging, and general
nurturing. Dopamine & oxytocin are hard at work. Because there is such a
neurochemical reaction, there may be a physical reaction such as shivering,
which should also be acknowledged (grab a blanket!). Overall aftercare helps
resolve the neurochemical experience at emotional & physical levels.
7. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Do you prefer a particular BDSM climate? Which climate do understand
best? Which climate gives you the most issues? Do you think the climates
can be looked at separately?
Can you identify the neurochemical responses you have? Which
neurochemicals are more prevalent in your own BDSM?
What are you feelings on Endorphin Levels Theory? Can you follow the
levels in a recent scene (RL or SL)?
How do you deal with aftercare? Whats your best experience? Worst
experience?