Some masochists require pain or humiliation in order to function sexually. Other masochists may engage in more typical sexual activities at some times and masochistic activities at other times. Some people may act on their urges by hurting themselves or tying themselves up. Masochists often seek partners to tie them up, humiliate, blindfold, or hurt them. They may enjoy being whipped, beaten, shocked, cut, or pierced.
Verbal abuse is common.
Sexual masochism is more common in males, but the incidence in females appears to be on the rise. Most masochists begin having fantasies about these activities in childhood or adolescence. They usually begin experimenting with partners by early adulthood. Some people may engage in masochistic acts without increasing the severity for many years. Others may need to increase the severity over time to acts that result in injury or even death.