Abstract
A fetish is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as “a form of sexual desire in which gratification is linked to an abnormal degree to a particular object, item of clothing, part of the body, etc.” The diagnostic statistical manual (DSM), which defines psychological disorders, has also defined fetishes. Fetishes, however, are not defined as a disorder unless they confer a serious or significant detriment or distress for the person. Most individuals who self-describe as having fetishes or being fetishists do not fall into the category of having clinical impairments due to the fetish. So how do sexual fantasies differ from fetishes? Sexual fantasies are broader than fetishes and include sexual desire for certain behaviors but may also include fetishes. This article aims to examine fetishes as defined by the Oxford Dictionary in which the person is not clinically impaired. In other words, this article will explore fetishes between consenting adults for the sexual enjoyment of all parties involved.
Recommended Citation
Grimes, Adriana
(2019)
"The Science of Fetishes,"
Osmosis Magazine: Vol. 2019:
Iss.
1, Article 5.
Available at:
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/osmosis/vol2019/iss1/5