BDSM is a variety of erotic practices involving dominance and submission, roleplaying, restraint, and other interpersonal dynamics. Given the wide range of practices, some of which may be engaged in by people who do not consider themselves as practicing BDSM, inclusion in the BDSM community or subculture is usually dependent on self-identification and shared experience. Interest in BDSM can range from one-time experimentation to a lifestyle.
The following outline is provided as an overview of and topical guide to BDSM:
The term BDSM is a portmanteau of initialisms intended to encompass all of the following activities:
See main article: Discipline (BDSM).
See main article: Dominance and submission.
See main article: Sadomasochism.
See main article: Play (BDSM).
See main article: List of BDSM equipment.
See also: List of people associated with BDSM.