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Neurodiversity, Relationships and romance, Social and behavioural

Episode 40: Kink, community, and transformation

Find expert insights on the psychological side of kink subculture from Liam Wignall and Kate Marks in this episode of PsychCrunch, hosted by Ella Rhodes.

30 April 2025

By PsychCrunch

The massive variety of human sexual interests is a little mind-boggling. As what we consider to be sexually typical continues to be expanded and shaped by the internet and popular culture, psychologists are making efforts to research and understand kinks and members of the kink community like never before.

Join Ella Rhodes in conversation with Liam Wignall (Senior Lecturer at Brighton University and committee member of the BPS's Sexualities Section) about his work exploring community in these underground spaces, neurodivergence in kink, and the ways modern technology is transforming the scene — as well as research into it.

We also chat with Dr Kate Marks, a Clinical Psychologist who works with those involved in kink communities, about her impressions of the emotions, social consequences, and even therapeutic echoes that run through these subversive engagements. 

As you might anticipate, this episode discusses sex and sexuality, and as such may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener discretion is advised.

This is Episode 40 of PsychCrunch, the podcast of the British Psychological Society's Research Digest, sponsored by Zanda.

Download directly here.

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Episode Credits:

Hosted by Ella Rhodes.
Audio wizardry by Jeff Knowler.
Edited by Emma Barratt. 

PsychCrunch is brought to you by Zanda, the all-in-one practice management software designed for psychologists. With telehealth, easy mobile access, and automated tools, including online scheduling and reminders, Zanda helps you run your practice, your way. Find out more at ZandaHealth.com