fetish

Fetish refers to a strong, persistent sexual interest in an object or body part not typically viewed as erotic. In broader use, the term can describe cultural or religious objects believed to have power. In clinical psychology, fetishism denotes arousal focused on a specific object or feature and is distinguished from typical variation in sexual interests by concerns about distress, impairment, or consent when present.

The word originates from the French fétiche, from Portuguese feitiço meaning spell or charm, originally referring to magical objects or talismans. The modern sexual sense developed in the 19th and 20th centuries as psychological study expanded to include varied sexual interests and preferences.

Common targets of fetishistic interest include clothing such as shoes, leather, latex, or stockings; body parts such as feet or hair; and non-living objects such as balloons, rubber, or mechanical devices. Fetishes can be exclusive to a single object or part, or form part of a broader pattern of arousal. In clinical terms, fetishistic disorder is diagnosed when the fetish causes distress or impairment, or involves non-consenting parties; many people experience fetish-like interests without clinical problems.

Prevalence estimates vary and are difficult to compare across studies. Fetishes are not rare, and many individuals incorporate fetish elements into consensual sexual activity without distress. Treatment is considered when the interest causes significant distress, impairment, or risk of harm; approaches include psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral or psychodynamic methods, and collaboration with sexual health professionals to address distress, consent, and safety.