Sometimes man is extraordinarily, passionately in love with suffering (Fyodor Dostoevsky)

Masochism, a term coined in 1886 by the Austrian psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebing in his famous treatise Psychopathia Sexualis. Krafft-Ebing, who used it inspired by the Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, refers to the pursuit of sexual and psychological pleasure through pain, suffering, and humiliation. Many people develop a sort of symmetry between love and suffering, already during childhood. The classic example is that of a child whose parents have given love intermittently and punitively: hence his belief that love means suffering.

Masochism, And this may seem paradoxical, but it's also a way to feel alive, to have meaning, to choose an identity. In this case, pain becomes a refuge, which isn't scary, but rather, somehow attracts. 

Among other things, physical or emotional pain, if perceived as safe or consensual, can activate the nervous system intensely, through a series of reactions:

• the release of endorphins (chemicals that dull pain and create pleasure),
• increased heart rate and alertness,
• the feeling of “being completely present” in body and mind.

Masochism can become a a way to get out of the emotional routine, feel more vivid emotions and have confirmation of one's existence through intense experience.

If masochism It is related to self-punishment or psychological suffering, can consume:

• mental and physical energy,
• attention that could be devoted to personal growth or healthy relationships,
• ability to enjoy life without imposed pain.

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