Expressions of Queer Intimacy: BDSM and Kink as Means of Self-Actualization

Traditional concepts of sexuality and intimacy contain normative assumptions that limit the fluidity and creativity with which individuals’ relational, gender, and affectional identities can be expressed. This theoretical article applies the seven axioms of Hammack et al.’s paradigm of queer intimac...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Journal of humanistic psychology 2024-11, Vol.64 (6), p.993-1013
Main Author: Muzacz, Arien K.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Case studies
Congruence
Counselors
Identity formation
Intimacy
Neurodiversity
Polyamory
Sadomasochism
Self-actualization
Sexuality
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Summary:Traditional concepts of sexuality and intimacy contain normative assumptions that limit the fluidity and creativity with which individuals’ relational, gender, and affectional identities can be expressed. This theoretical article applies the seven axioms of Hammack et al.’s paradigm of queer intimacy to a case study of a client who identifies as queer, kinky, poly, transmasculine, and neurodivergent. The resulting conceptualization illustrates ways in which kink and bondage/domination and sadomasochism can contribute to identity development, congruence, and self-actualization. Implications for counseling are provided along with humanistic themes found within the case study. Humanistic counselors can connect more authentically with queer, kinky, polyamorous clients by acknowledging the diversities of clients’ identities and behaviors and increasing counselor competencies related to queer, kink, and poly cultures and practices.
ISSN:0022-1678
1552-650X
DOI:10.1177/00221678211022638