Biases And Stereotypes

Biases and Stereotypes

My biases and stereotypes arise from lack of knowledge and assumptions, specifically in the realm of human sexuality and behavior. When I am prompted to think about “BDSM,” those four letters insinuate a lot about a person to me which, I realize is a complete judgement. The term BDSM stands for bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadism and masochism, and has several meanings depending on the person’s preference. However, I automatically think of a harmful, even abusive relationship. I picture two individuals that enter a “relationship” where one person allows their partner to control them sexually. I think of a dominant and submissive person. I am prone to think of a man/woman partnership where the

Most likely because I can imagine a man attempting to exert his control over a woman using his strength as power. Although, a female dominatrix also comes to mind when referring to what has been displayed in the media, either on television or in movies. The dominant individual dressed up in leather, holding a whip, or other instrument to inflict pain. The submissive person; naked, hypothetically kneeling on the ground or lying on the bed and calling the other person “master.” I think of two weak individuals. The dominant persona is weak for having to demonstrate their control over someone else, for needing to feel superior, needing to feel power in an unbalanced relationship. The submissive persona exemplifies weakness because of their desperate need for love and willingness to accept this kind of relationship. I imagine a poorly lit room with a four-poster bed and chains tied to it. I see handcuffs, gags, and blindfolds. I think of a woman being tied up on that bed

A woman who is enduring pain during intimate situations to please her mate. Not only does this create discomfort, but also brings up some anger in me. I almost feel the need to protect this person. On the other hand, if they believe they enjoy it, I can see myself trying to educate or talk them out of it. However, I also know that this is not my duty as a mental health counselor. A client that shares this information with me may not be necessarily seeking counseling for that aspect of their lives. As a therapist, it is important to stay open, nonjudgmental, and empathic to clients. Empowering the client is important, but ensuring not to push values on them is