Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Use of a Psychophysiological Script-driven Imagery Experiment to Study Trauma-related Dissociation in Borderline Personality Disorder
Published on: March 8, 2018
The DSM diagnostic criteria for sexual sadism
1Sexual Behavior Clinic, New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, Unit 45, New York, NY 10032, USA. rbk1@columbia.edu
Abstract:
I reviewed the empirical literature for 1900-2008 on the paraphilia of Sexual Sadism for the Sexual and Gender Identity Disorders Workgroup for the forthcoming fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The results of this review were tabulated into a general summary of the criticisms relevant to the DSM diagnosis of Sexual Sadism, the assessment of Sexual Sadism utilizing the DSM in samples drawn from forensic populations, and the assessment of Sexual Sadism using the DSM in non-forensic populations. I conclude that the diagnosis of Sexual Sadism should be retained, that minimal modifications of the wording of this diagnosis are warranted, and that there is a need for the development of dimensional and structured diagnostic instruments.
Related Concept Videos
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Conduct Disorder
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Behavioral Characteristics and...
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Psychosexual Theory of Development
The Five Stages of Psychosexual Development
Freud's psychosexual...
Amebiasis

