The APA’s Div.44: BDSM Task Force focuses on research, education and training, psychological practice, public interest, and public awareness related to kink, leather, BDSM, fetish, and other forms of alternative sexualities and communities in order to promote understanding, protect marginalized communities, provide quality content, and address stigmatization in the lifestyle.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, the term “BDSM” is “broadly used to refer to a wide range of behaviors that individuals with sexual masochism and/or sexual sadism (as well as other individuals with similar sexual interests) engage in, such as restraints or restriction, discipline, spanking, slapping, sensory deprivation (e.g. using blindfolds), and dominance-submission roleplay involving themes such as master/enslaved person, owner/pet, or kidnapper/victim.” (DSM-5-TR, p. 791)
We invite enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join the BDSM Task Force as members. If you have a strong interest in contributing to the advancement of knowledge, inclusivity, and the welfare of individuals engaged in BDSM, we encourage you to apply. To apply, please submit a brief statement of interest and a current CV to: Div44BDSM@gmail.com.