Since each BDSM identity group had a more secure attachment style than controls,

<aside> 😈 the conclusion that BDSM interests and practices come from insecure attachment styles cannot be drawn. Rather, indications for the inverse relationship were shown.

</aside>

Further, no differences were found between private and community practitioners concerning their degree of experienced trauma,

<aside> 😈 which again shows little evidence for a link between trauma and BDSM practices.

</aside>

From the perspective from social policy, our findings argue against framing BDSM practices as coping mechanisms for experienced (sexual) trauma or as maladaptive coping mechanisms in general.

<aside> 😈 Although these practices have been subject to stigmatization, medicalization, and even criminalization, our data, together with a large body of scientific evidence argue much more for acceptance of BDSM practices within the realm of normal sexual interests and behavior.

</aside>

Active interventions aimed at tackling the stigma surrounding these sexual interests are needed, including the distribution of adequate information. (P. 11)