Construction and Validation of a Questionnaire on Kinky and BDSM Fantasies and Activities in Portuguese Adults.

Abstract

Sexual practices considered unconventional, including kinky and BDSM dynamics, are integrated within the diversity of human sexuality. However, studies often use ad hoc instruments and/or depend on the self-identification of participants, leading to inconsistent results. Therefore, the present work aimed to fill these gaps through the development and validation of the Kinky and BDSM Fantasies and Activities Inventory (Inventário de Fantasias e Atividades kinky e BDSM; IFAKBDSM). This instrument was developed based on the adaptation of two preexisting instruments and in response to discussions with psychologists and researchers experienced in this area, as well as individuals with kinky practices. Study 1 involved an Exploratory Factor Analysis with 260 Portuguese adults (18-72 years; M = 29), and Study 2 comprised a Confirmatory Factor Analysis with 515 Portuguese adults (18-79 years; M = 30). The preliminary factorial analysis identified four factors consistent with the literature: Domination and Sadism, Submission and Masochism, Voyeurism and Exhibitionism, and Fetishism. The second study confirmed this structure with satisfactory factor weights and fit indices and presented good internal consistency. The final version of the IFAKBDSM comprises two sections: the first one includes 28 items that assess seven dimensions organized into the four aforementioned factors; and the second section encompasses 38 items that focus on kinky practices. Globally, the instrument presented satisfactory psychometric results, proving to be a reliable tool for studying kinky and BDSM practices in Portuguese adults.