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Transvestic Fetishism - Transvestic Fetishism Symptom, Cause, Treatment
Whereas Fetishism is the sexual arousal by inanimate objects, transvestic fetishism is the sexual arousal by clothing worn by the opposite sex. In most cases, this involves female clothing. Fetishism is the use of an inanimate object or a specific part of the body for physical or mental sexual stimulation. This sexual behavior is widespread and takes many forms, from benign (a preference for the partner's wearing of lingerie before sex) to vicious (a rapist cutting a lock of hair from the victim for use in masturbation). The disorder characteristics are:
- Repeatedly for at least 6 months the patient has intense sexual desires, fantasies or behavior concerning the use of inanimate objects (such as shoes, underwear).
- This results in clinically important distress or impairs work, social or personal functioning.
- The objects are not used solely in cross-dressing (female clothing in Transvestic Fetishism) and are not equipment intended to stimulate the genitals (such as a vibrator).
Cause of Transvestic Fetishism
Persons with transvestic fetishes should not be assumed to be homosexual. According to DSM-IV-TR , most men who practice cross-dressing are basically heterosexual in their orientation. Some, however, have occasional sexual encounters with other men.
Symptoms of Transvestic Fetishism
Early symptoms of transvestic fetishism involve touching or wearing items of clothing that are considered typically feminine. This initial interest may progress to wearing undergarments or other items that can be hidden from the view of others while providing arousal to the wearer.
Most practitioners are male, usually heterosexual, and usually married (or have been married.) In some cases, sexual partners are fully aware of the fetish. Many will often have children as well. |
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