Fetishistic Disorder is characterized by a strong sexual desire to either inanimate objects or non-sexual body parts, in addition to clinically significant distress or impairment to the individual.

The majority of people find some non-genital body traits or objects appealing, implying that fetishism is a natural element of human sexuality. However, when fetishistic arousal interferes with regular sexual or social functioning, or when sexual arousal is impossible without the fetish object, fetishism could turn into a huge problem.

Common Objects

A photograph of the fetish object may arouse some people with fetishism, but many people with Fetishistic Disorder prefer/require the actual object to induce arousal. For sexual enjoyment, the individual may frequently touches, rubs, taste, or smells the fetish object, or request their partner to wear it during sexual sessions.

Some common fetish objects/ non-genital body parts include:

Undergarments
Stockings
Rubber objects
Leather clothing
Footwear
Feet
Toes
Hair
Underarms

Signs and Symptoms

Recurring urges involving nonliving objects or non-genital body parts
Impairment of social, occupational, or personal functioning
Sexual acts are focused exclusively on the fetish object/body part
Sexually arousal is only possible when the fetish is used
Feeling of intense guilt, shame or distress
Relationship tension

Treatment

Fetishistic Disorder should only be treated as a disorder if the fetish causes distress or impairment to the individual’s ability to function normally in everyday life. Both medication and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be used to treat this disorder. Psychology Blossom Centre offers therapy programs tailored to individuals with Fetishistic Disorder.

✽ Medication

Lower sexual drive
Suppression of intensity and frequency of urges
Reduction of obsessive fantasies and urges

✽ Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Identify the underlying cause of behaviour
Teach methods on managing sexual urges in more adaptive and healthier ways
Increase the salience of negative consequences of unhealthy sexual behaviour to the individual to reduce the likelihood of deviant acts

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Paraphilic Disorders

Gentle Start-Up in Couples Communication

Name: Fetishistic Disorder
Creator: Psychology Blossom

What is a Gentle Start-up?

Effective communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and this holds for couples as well. A gentle start-up in communication refers to initiating a conversation with care, empathy, and respect. It’s about setting a positive tone for the discussion, which is essential in ensuring both partners feel heard and understood.

In Asian households, where communication can sometimes be perceived as harsh or direct, the concept of a “gentle start-up” may seem jarring, and unfamiliar. Traditional Asian households often prioritize directness and sometimes even bluntness in communication, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts within couples.

In fact, gentle start-up is actually aligned when the values of Asian households. Many Asian households emphasize respect towards loved ones. In such contexts, starting a conversation gently can be seen as a sign of respect, even if the content of the conversation is a complaint.

Maintaining harmony is a fundamental value within Asian households as well. A gentle start-up not only reflects respect but also serves to preserve the equilibrium within the relationship. Initiating a conversation gently reinforces the importance of the relationship. This approach communicates that the relationship is more significant than any temporary disagreement or frustration.

In Asian households, collectivism and interdependence are deeply rooted cultural values. These values emphasize the interconnectedness of the couple and the idea that their actions and words can impact the entire relationship.

The gentle start-up approach aligns with these values and aims to minimize the emotional impact of difficult moments within the family. By choosing a more respectful and considerate tone, family members can navigate challenging conversations with minimal emotional harm, ultimately promoting healthier and more harmonious family dynamics.

Benefits of Gentle Start-Ups:

Enhanced Understanding:
- Initiating a conversation gently allows both partners to approach the topic with an open mind, fostering better understanding and empathy.
Reduced Defensiveness:
- A harsh start to a conversation can trigger defensiveness, making it challenging to resolve issues. A gentle start-up can minimize this defensiveness, leading to more productive discussions.
Conflict Resolution:
- By using a gentle approach, couples can create a safe space for addressing concerns and resolving conflicts constructively.

In Asian households, the importance of gentle start-ups in couples’ communication becomes evident when considering the cultural dynamics at play. While directness and bluntness have their place, employing a gentle approach can foster understanding, reduce defensiveness, and facilitate healthy conflict resolution. It’s a harmonious blend of traditional values and effective communication techniques that can lead to stronger, more resilient relationships in the context of diverse Asian households.

Fetishistic Disorder

Common Objects

Signs and Symptoms