
Fetishism is a type of paraphilia that occurs when a person is sexually aroused by an object or body part that is not usually considered sexually exciting. (The object itself is called a fetish.) Some of the most common fetishes include:
- Clothing, such as shoes, gloves, underwear
- Materials, such as leather and rubber
- Body parts, like feet and hair
- Bodily features, like tattoos and piercings
Fetishes are more common in men than in women. Experts aren’t certain what causes them.

Having a fetish doesn’t necessarily mean a person has a disorder. In fact, fetishes may not be a problem at all. Many people incorporate fetishes into their sexual routines. For example, a person with a fetish might ask a partner to wear leather clothing. Or, they might hold a silk stocking while masturbating. Incorporating the fetish adds some spice to the encounter.

However, fetishism becomes a problem when a person needs the object in order to be sexually aroused and feels distress over the situation. In some cases, fetishes interfere with a person’s daily life.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM5), a person with a fetishistic disorder may have the following behaviors:
- They cannot become sexually aroused or reach orgasm without the object or body part.
- They are not sexually aroused by other types of sexual stimulation.
- They feel distressed and embarrassed about the fetish.
- They are unable to maintain their arousal or participate in relationships.
- They feel unable to control their need for the fetish.

Fetishistic disorder may be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of talk therapy and drugs. Some healthcare providers prescribe antidepressants to patients with fetishistic disorder.
Resources
International Society for Sexual Medicine
“What are paraphilias?”
https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-qa/what-are-paraphilias/
Merck Manual (Consumer Version)
Brown, George R., MD
“Fetishism”
(Last modified: August 2019)
https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/sexuality-and-sexual-disorders/fetishism#
Psychology Today
“Fetishistic Disorder”
(Last reviewed: February 23, 2019)
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/fetishistic-disorder
WebMD
Collins, Sonya
“What Is a Sexual Fetish?”
(January 27, 2015)
https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/sexual-fetish#1