The Kinky Brain - The Neuroscience of BDSM
This book will explore questions about kink (BDSM) from a scientific perspective, although it also draws on my experience.
Hyperlinks in the Table of Contents are to drafts of the chapters in the blog.
Table of Contents
Part 1 - The Basics
BDSM Explained to the Vanilla
A Brief History of BDSM
BDSM Is Not Science, It’s an Art!
Kinks, Squicks and Kink-Shaming - Navigating Your Likes and Dislikes in BDSM
Part 2 - Sadomasochism
The Art of Bondage
Non-Impact Sadomasochism
Hot Spicy Buns - Using Hot Peppers and Capsaicin
Figging: the Kink of Putting Ginger in Your Butt
Electricity Play
Choking - How Safe Is It?
Part 3 - Dominance/submission
What Happens in a Dominance/Submission Relationship?
Types of Dominance/Submission Relationships
The Origins of Dominance/Submission
Part 4 - The Neuroscience of BDSM
A Neuroscience Primer
The Physiology of BDSM
The Neuroscience of Spanking
Why Do Sadists Like to Inflict Pain?
Areas of the Brain Involved in Masochism
Part 5 - Altered States of Consciousness
The Endorphin Rush: Myth or Reality?
Endorphins and Adrenaline - What Science Really Says
The Neuroscience of Sub Space: Endorphins, Noradrenaline and Serotonin
Altered States of Consciousness in BDSM
Sub Drop
Sadism, Empathy and Compassion
BDSM and Mysticism
Part 6 - Dangers and Abuse in BDSM
Responsibilities of the Dominant and the Submissive
Panic Attacks in BDSM
The Thin Line Between Consent and Coercion
How to Recognize Abuse in BDSM Relationships