Understanding KinkMeaning · core values · principles of play

The core values of kink culture02

Kink culture encourages people, with openness to diversity and awareness of risk, to explore their own intimate needs and limits, to respect those of others, and to look after each other's physical and mental safety when they play.

1. 1
   Openness to diversity

   Understand that everyone's intimate needs and limits can differ, and meet those differences with openness and curiosity.

2. 2
   Risk awareness

   Every intimate interaction carries risk. Learn the possible negative outcomes beforehand, and make sure each person is able to recognise the risk and decide for themselves whether to take it.

3. 3
   Exploring yourself

   Be willing to discover and embrace your own feelings and desires through sensing, asking and trying, and so come to know your own intimate needs and limits.

4. 4
   Respecting others

   Respect everyone's right to say yes or no. When inviting someone to play, make it easy for them to decline. Confirm each other's physical and mental limits beforehand and obtain active consent; keep checking in on the other person's state and willingness during play, and even with a safeword agreed, watch for them slipping into a state where they cannot express themselves.

5. 5
   Valuing safety

   Before play, both should have the relevant safety knowledge and be honest about their limits and how they are feeling right now. During play, pay attention to your own body and mind, and say so at once if something feels wrong so you can handle it together. Afterwards, check in on each other and face any negative consequences together.