Every second Tuesday of the month we will be treated to sex and kink education on a wide range of topics. Stay tuned for more sexy topics coming your way!

BDSM as Neurodivergent Liberation Description

with Kit Amethyst

Class Description:

BDSM as Neurodivergent Liberation Description

Nick Walker, author of Neuroqueer Heresies (2014) defines neurodivergence as “having a mind that functions in ways which diverge significantly from the dominant societal standards of “normal.”” While in recent years, the label of neurodivergent is often, and somewhat falsely, been used as a catch-all term to describe ADHDers and Autists, this identity exists to be claimed by anyone who seeks to name, recognize, and own their unique ways of being in the world and the norms that have harm us all (neurodivergent and neuro“typical” alike). 

For many kinksters and BDSM practitioners, our identity as an erotic minority already marks us as outside the “norm” despite research that indicates the high prevalence (45–60%) of BDSM fantasies within the population, even if those who claim the identity of “kinky” is a much lower percentage  (Dunkley & Brotto, 2018; De Neef et al., 2019). Like being neurodivergent, to be kinky, is to claim and own our own experiences and desires as different from the expectations and demands of a larger dominant culture.

It is perhaps not surprising then, that many kinksters are multiply neurodivergent. We are queer, gender non-conforming, trans, non-monogamous, plural, trauma survivors, chronically ill, and/or disabled. We struggle with our mental health, have been diagnosed with personality disorders, pathologized, or labeled as manipulative, noncompliant, or psychotic. Some of us are PoGM because neurotypicality has always been rooted in white supremacy. 

This presentation asks not only why so many neurodivergent individuals are drawn to kink, but also how BDSM uniquely supports our liberation and authentic truths.

Your Presenters:

Kit Amethyst (they/them)

Presenter | Neurodivergent, Non-Binary, Queer Artist & Educator | BDSM & Mental Health Advocate

Kit is a neurodivergent, non-binary, queer artist, educator, and kinkster in the mental health field, with a passion for fostering inclusive and affirming spaces. They have been polyamorous for over a decade and have identified as a kinkster since 2018, bringing an openness, curiosity, and excitement for everyone’s unique experiences into every space they inhabit. Kit’s special interest is understanding the whys of the things we do, just as much as the hows, in order to support individuals in discovering their own wild, authentic truths. In their clinical work, they strive to subvert traditional power dynamics, celebrate individuals’ identities, and actively dismantle white supremacy, all while working to repair the harm caused by the historical pathologizing of marginalized individuals. Focused on an engaging and inclusive presentation style, Kit brings curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to creating spaces where diverse experiences can thrive. 

Socials:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mx_kit_amethyst
Fetlife https://fetlife.com/Kit_Amethyst

Important Registration Information: