Sadism is the tendency to derive pleasure from the pain or suffering of others. Some people with sadistic personalities may inflict pain on others, while other sadists merely witness and enjoy it vicariously. Sadists may inflict pain by physical force, such as through violence, or psychological force, as in emotionally abusive relationships. In social settings, they may seek to control others and
What Is Sadism? (Plain Language Explanation)
Sadism refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Sadism
- Symptoms: The specific ways sadism shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen sadism
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When sadism occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Sadism
- Sadism is far more common than most people realize
- Sadism is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with sadism see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about sadism is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing sadism, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.