Exhibitionism, also known as Bdsm (or public display of one’s private areas for sexual gratification, falls into the paraphilic disorder category and includes interests like infantilization (infantilizing babies with diapers), body mutilation (piercing, scarring or tattooing) or sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).

Exhibitionist behaviors may be considered deviant, but that doesn’t make you a psychopath or danger to others. Exploring your exhibitionist kink in an appropriate context can be healthy in exploring your sexual potential; just keep in mind that exhibitionism can lead to further escalated behaviors if started too aggressively.

Importantly, it’s also crucial to keep in mind that exposing oneself does not equate to rape. Instead, this process is called “exhibition,” and occurs as an unconscious response to specific stimuli; those engaging in exhibition tend to flash strangers because the display of their genitals stimulates sexual stimulation.

Sexologist Carol Queen from Good Vibrations suggests that those interested in exhibitionism can explore their desires by keeping the lights on and staging a show for your partner. She advises trying out activities such as dancing, tease and masturbating to see what triggers arousal in you.

Make the most of your exhibitionism at a BDSM dungeon, swinger club or group sex party; just ensure that all consent has been secured before heading out there to explore this kink with someone new or just yourself!