Beyond sexuality and boundaries: cross-national perspectives on sexual satisfaction and BDSM/kink in Chile and Spain

Sexual satisfaction and pleasure are key components of well-being, yet remain underexplored among individuals engaging in BDSM and kink practices. This study compares sociodemographic characteristics, sexual practices, and predictors of sexual satisfaction and pleasure among self-identified BDSM/kink practitioners in Chile (n = 543) and Spain (n = 233). Using a cross-sectional design, participants completed an online survey including sociodemographic and BDSM-related variables, as well as standardised measures of sexual satisfaction (NSSS-S) and sexual pleasure (SPS19; Spain only). Chilean participants were significantly younger and more likely to identify as feminine or bisexual, while Spanish participants were older and had higher levels of education. Both samples reported similar engagement patterns – mainly with formal partners and in domestic settings – but differed in the variety of practices and number of BDSM partners. Despite these differences, levels of sexually arousing practices and arousal–behavior discordance were comparable. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that sexual satisfaction in both samples was primarily predicted by relationship status and frequency of BDSM/kink practice, whereas sexual pleasure among Spanish participants was associated with bisexual orientation, higher education, and identifying as submissive or switch. These findings suggest that sexual well-being among BDSM/kink practitioners is shaped by relational, behavioural, and sociocultural factors, offering a novel cross-cultural comparison of BDSM/kink practitioners in Spanish-speaking contexts.