Sadomasochism is defined as sexual behavior that involves
getting pleasure from causing or feeling pain. Previously thought to be a
pathological practice, current research has found no evidence of harmful
effects as a result of sadomasochism.
Scientists have found sadomasochism may actually lead to a
meditative experience and that such practices are not entirely about sex. Two
studies, one conducted by James Ambler of Northern Illinois University and the
other by Brad Sagarin of Northern Illinois University, have found that these
painful, sexual practices actually contribute to an altered state of
consciousness.
The first study involved participants who were assigned to
either the "receiving pain" role or the "giving pain" role.
Before and after the sexual tests, the participants completed a cognitive test
as well as questionnaires that sought to examine their brain function. Results
of the cognitive test revealed that the "receiving pain" participants
had poorer results, which led the researchers to believe that the pain caused
by the sexual experience actually may have caused blood to flow away from the
region of the brain that is responsible for executive control and working
memory. This is believed to alter one's state of consciousness, particularly to
a state of focus and enjoyment.
The second study focused on a pain ritual in a nonsexual
atmosphere. Sagarin's participants were involved in a ritual called the
"Dance of Souls" in which people received temporary skin piercings
that were pulled by rope while music was being played. These "energy
pulls," as they are called, were shown to make the participants feel less
stressed after they filled out surveys about stress, emotions, and flow (the
state of focus and enjoyment).
The researchers found that these practices may elicit
similar feelings that one experiences during yoga or meditation. Additionally,
the participants reported that they feel more connected to others when
experiencing pain. While this may shoot down previous beliefs about
sadomasochism, Ambler and Sagarin believe that further research is needed. More
specifically, they want a closer minute-by-minute monitoring of these
participants.
Thomas Carannante
No comments:
Post a Comment