Trauma Awareness

Past trauma can impact enjoyment of BDSM or other sexual activities. Sometimes seeing a therapist to work through past trauma can greatly improve your sex life, sex drive, and overall sexual experiences.

Trauma-Related Responses

Trauma-related responses such as freeze and fawn, as well as tonic immobility (TI), can occur at any time during regular or BDSM play, regardless of personal history. Tonic immobility is a state of temporary, involuntary motor inhibition that occurs in states of intense fear and has been (primarily) studied among victims of sexual violence. 

In a 2017 study of sexual assault survivors, a full 70% reported that they experienced tonic immobility for at least a portion of their assault. Previous studies have also found that survivors who experienced tonic immobility often feel more shame and self-blame after an assault - a consequence of cultural belief in the myth that survivors should always run or fight back. Researchers also found that survivors who experienced tonic immobility were more likely to experience depression and post traumatic stress disorder after an assault.

TI can present "as trembling, physical and mental paralysis, inability to vocalize, and eye closure." Partners should monitor for these signs and symptoms and check in on their partners if present.