Tickle fetishism: pleasure beyond playfulness

This study explores the largely unexplored connection between tickling and adult sexual behavior, focusing on tickle fetishism. An online survey of individuals interested in tickle fetishism examined ticklishness types, tools, preferred body parts, and partner preferences. Results revealed diverse patterns of ticklishness changes over time and distinct body-part preferences for different types of tickling. Childhood experiences and exposure to tickling content in television were found to shape individuals' affinity for tickle fetishism. A significant portion of respondents reported experiencing orgasms exclusively from tickling, highlighting its sufficiency as a sexual stimulus among fetishists. Exploratory factor analysis identified three factors underlying tickling and sexual experiences: enjoyment and frequency of tickling during sexual activity; preference for intense sexual experiences; age of becoming sexually active. The study provides unique insights into tickle fetishism as a distinct sexual preference.

Sarah Dagher, Shimpei Ishiyama