First
described by Sigmund Freud in 1887, sexual fetishism is
a form of paraphilia where the object of affection is a
specific inanimate object.
A fetish
is an object, not a body part. According to psychology or
psychiatric terminology there is no such thing as a 'foot
fetish'. A foot is part of a human body. (Okay, unless it
is detached from a human, but let’s not go there for
the scope of this article). Technically, it's not truly
a fetish. That is called a partialism. This is when
a part of the body is an extremely important part to achieve
sexual arousal. However, you could actually extend
it out somewhat when you talk about shoes.
A fetish
is when a person is sexually aroused by a specific object
or objects and is generally unable to achieve sexual satisfaction
without that object being present.
What
makes a fetish "fetishism" by definition is that
it interferes with your life. It's not just something you
like to do, or you want to do, but something you have to
do. It’s as if there is a compulsion. In other words,
there is no other way to have an orgasm except with a shoe,
bra or panties present, or whatever that person is into.
Fetishism
is considered a male disorder. Why? Nobody really knows
the answer to that, but most of the time it is, there might
be some genetic differences, since men and women are different
genetically and so are our brains. In general, psychiatrists
and psychologists don’t agree on what causes a fetish.
Fetishist
arousal is generally considered to be a problem when it
interferes with normal sexual or social functioning. There
are fetishes that are more common than others, but like
any aspects of human sexuality it can encompass a wide range.
Common
fetishes include ones focused on footwear, underwear, body
piercing, wigs, leather, stockings, pantyhose, bras, shoes,
panties, spandex, tickling and I'm sure the list goes on
and on.
If you
are with someone who has a fetish that is interfering with
your relationship, then it's probably time to either talk
to that person about it or leave if it is bothering you.
If a fetish is interfering with your life, there are treatment
options for you. For more on this topic do a google search.
Treatment:
See a qualified, licensed professional. Anyone can
themselves a sex therapist, so you want to find a good psychologist
or psychiatrist who you trust. Try to get referred by your
own physician or health care provider.
Of course
shoes can be fun. Wear
responsibly.
