This paper analyzes how
paraphilias are sexual disorders that are often overlooked as simply kinky ideas and why theyoften
lead to life-interference and even physical harms. It discusses how sadomasochism (SM), a sexual practice involving physical or psychological pain that is deliberately induced for pleasure, is one such disorder. It examines the psychology behind the disorder and how drug
treatment and cognitive-behavioral therapy have both been shown to have positive results in treating it as well as multifaceted treatment including individual, group and family counseling as well as collaboration with the judicial system. When the public awareness of SM and all
paraphilias increases, hopefully treatment options will increase and the stigma on people with sexual dysfunctions will be lowered.