FETISHISM - 13E

Fetishism is a sexual tendency in which a person obtains sexual arousal or sexual satisfaction with a particular object or material, which is usually considered unconventional or unusual. This object or material is called a "fetish" and can be an inanimate object, such as shoes or clothing, or a specific part of the human body, such as a leg or hair.

Fetishism is usually considered a paraphilic disorder when it causes difficulty, stress, or even harm to the individual experiencing it or to others. For example, someone who has a shoe fetish may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed in social situations involving crowds and shoes, or may feel tempted to steal or damage other people's shoes. However, not all fetishes are considered paraphilic disorders, depending on the degree of difficulty and misery they cause.

Fetishism itself can come from various factors, such as childhood experiences or environmental influences. Some theories also link fetishism to certain psychological distortions or cognitive problems.

Treatment for fetishism generally involves cognitive behavioral therapy, in which individuals learn to cope with their behavior and shift their focus to healthy and constructive sexuality. Drug use may also be used in some cases to reduce excessive sexual arousal or impulsivity.

However, it is important to remember that fetishism itself is not a sign of insanity or criminal behavior, and individuals experiencing fetishism should not feel ashamed or guilty about their sexual inclinations. They only need to seek help if their fetish is causing them difficulty or discomfort in their daily lives. (1)