What Are the Craziest Fetishes and Addictions?

Topics of sexuality and addiction are often reduced online to shocking headlines. In real life, though, what’s “different” or unusual isn’t automatically an illness. In medicine, behavior is generally considered a disorder only when it causes a person significant, long-term distress or harms them or others. With addictions, the hallmark is repeated behavior or substance use despite negative consequences and with a loss of control. In the article below you’ll find a brief but factual overview that connects expert explanations with a large list of examples.

How to tell a “kink,” a disorder, and an addiction apart (briefly and factually)

The lay term “perversion” is commonly used for non-traditional erotic interests. Clinically, we talk about paraphilias and “paraphilic disorders.” A paraphilia in itself is not a diagnosis unless it causes the person significant distress, impairs functioning, or leads to non-consensual behavior. This approach is used in the modern psychiatric classification DSM-5-TR (American Psychiatric Association). In addictions (both substance and non-substance), experts emphasize loss of control, the urge to continue despite harm, and changes in the brain’s reward systems—something long highlighted, for example, by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). A special category consists of so-called behavioral (non-substance) addictions; among the best-described in the scientific literature are gambling disorder and gaming disorder related to video games, both covered in official patient and healthcare materials.

100 examples of non-traditional sexual preferences (paraphilias and kinks) — briefly and without sensationalism

Note: We do not list or glorify non-consensual acts, violence, or anything illegal or harmful to others. Everything below refers exclusively to consensual practices between adults.

1. BDSM (dominance/submission, bondage, control) – for some, the appeal lies in playing with power, rules, and safety. The key is prior, explicit consent, a safeword, and the principles of safe, sane, and consensual.
2. Foot fetish (podophilia) – heightened attraction to feet or toes. In everyday life, it’s usually just a preference and not a problem in itself.
3. Shoe fetish – for example, pumps or sneakers as a strong arousal “trigger.” In couples, it often works as role-play and aesthetics.
4. Nylon/“stockings” fetish – attraction to pantyhose and stockings for their look and texture.
5. Latex and rubber – shiny, form-fitting materials can be a strong visual and tactile stimulus.
6. Leather and “leather” aesthetics – for some, a symbol of strength, subculture, and ritual.
7. Uniforms – police officer, pilot, or healthcare worker; often combines the idea of authority, order, and a role-play script.
8. Hair and hairstyles (trichophilia) – fascination with length, color, or a specific hair style.
9. Beards and body hair (hirsutophilia) – heightened interest in natural physical traits associated with maturity or masculinity.
10. Glasses (“specs fetish”)
    – combines an intellectual look, frames, and eye contact; for some it’s purely aesthetic.
11. Pregnancy aesthetics – attraction to a pregnant shape; in couples often linked to tenderness and body positivity.
12. Piercings and tattoos (stigmatophilia) – the contrast, originality, and symbolism can be attractive.
13. Power play without pain – an exchange of power without physical pain, e.g., guiding a partner within agreed rituals and rules.
14. Doctor/patient (role-play) – it’s a script, not reality; it’s important to agree on boundaries and safety.
15. “Wetlook” (wet clothing) – a visual and tactile play with fabric that changes color and clinginess.
16. “Looners” (balloons) – people are drawn to the sound, tension, and feel of latex; it’s a highly specialized community.
17. Object attraction (objectophilia) – strong emotional bonds with objects; for a small number of people it may be more identity than sexuality.
18. Mechanophilia (machines, vehicles) – more about fascination with shapes and performance; in most cases it stays at the level of fantasy.
19. Partialism – focus on a specific body part (hands, shoulders, nape); more common than many people think.
20. Mirrors and private performance – playing with seeing one’s own body and aesthetics; in private and with a partner’s consent.
21. Textures and materials (velvet, silk, lace) – sensory cues that support a sense of intimacy and luxury.
22. Role reversal – for example, temporarily swapping stereotypical roles within the safe boundaries of an agreement.Extended list of “kinks” (continuing the numbering from the article)
23. Sensory deprivation/“overload” – blindfolds or earplugs can heighten touch and anticipation. Everything happens only by agreement and with the option to stop at any time.
24. Temperature play (ice/heat) – the contrast of cold and warmth feels more intense on skin. Caution, testing on a small area, and communication are key.
25. Wax play (candles) – low-temperature wax creates gentle, controlled sensations. Use only cosmetic/appropriate wax and a safe distance.
26. Electrostimulation (TENS) – mild impulses from devices intended for use on the body. Requires respect for health contraindications and avoiding sensitive areas.
27. Cosplay – costumes and fictional characters give fantasy a setting and storyline. It’s all acted out between adults, with clear boundaries.
28. Pet play – voluntary “pet/caregiver” play with rules and rewards. Key elements are care, hygiene, and aftercare.
29. Verbal scripts (praise/commands) – words, tone, and pacing can be powerful triggers. “What’s okay / what’s not” is agreed on in advance.
30. Tickling kink – gentle tickling and laughter as sensory play. It’s important to be able to stop at any time.
31. Sensual massage – slow touch and oils as a closeness ritual. Often a mix of relaxation and playing with anticipation.
32. Food play/sploshing – creams, syrups, or fruit as playful sensory elements. It’s handled practically: a sheet, hygiene, and cleanup.
33. Feathers and soft brushes – very light sensations create tingles on the skin. Good for gradually building intensity.
34. Body worship – focused admiration of a specific body part (e.g., hands, shoulders). It’s about aesthetics, attention, and respect.
35. Tease & denial – stretching out and delaying climax as a game of patience. Works only with explicit consent from both.
36. Chastity play – an agreement to control access to pleasure as a longer game. Requires high trust and clear rules.
37. Leather-care rituals/bootblacking – cleaning and polishing shoes or leather as a ceremony. Emphasis on the scent of the material and care.
38. ASMR/whispering and breath – voice and breathing rhythm as sensory triggers. Suitable for those who prefer gentle auditory stimuli.
39. Scents and pheromones – preference for perfumes or a partner’s natural scent. Smell is strongly linked to memory and emotions.
40. “Macro/micro” size fantasies – imagining size differences in a fictional world. It’s imagination and story, not reality.
41. Themed worlds (medieval, sci-fi, cyberpunk) – props and world-building for escapism into a story. The important part is that everything is agreed and safe.
42. Private performance (dancing/posing for a partner) – a mild exhibitionist vibe at home. Photo and sharing boundaries are agreed on beforehand.
43. Gentle impact play (spanking) – light strikes with a hand or soft toy for rhythm and tension. Risky areas are avoided and a safeword is used.
44. Silk scarves and gentle restraint – symbolic control with an emphasis on comfort and quick release. Use the “two-finger rule” and safe knots.
45. Wartenberg wheel (prickly sensation) – gentle “prickling” on the skin to increase sensitivity. Pressure and pace are tested to avoid injury.
46. Warming/cooling lubricants – gel with a temperature effect for new sensations. Test on a small patch of skin before use.
47. Remote-controlled toys (teasing at a distance) – playing with anticipation on a walk or at home. Privacy and discretion matter.
48. Boss/assistant (role-play) – a power dynamic in a safe script. Vocabulary and boundaries are set in advance.
49. Masquerade – masks and anonymity shift the feeling of a role. A safe home environment is recommended.
50. Spy/agent (intrigue) – secret instructions and tasks during a “mission.” Everything stays within the game and privacy.
51. “Casino night”/cards and bets – rewards and tasks tied to game outcomes. Bets are always voluntary and agreed in advance.
52. Dice/action cards – random selection of gentle tasks for playfulness. Great for breaking routine.
53. D/s protocol and etiquette – rituals and rules as everyday role-play. Can increase predictability and a sense of safety.
54. Service-oriented dynamics – voluntary care or “service” tasks as affection. Aftercare follows the scene.
55. Praise kink – an intense response to verbal affirmation and admiration. Safe and positive even for shy people.
56. Eye-contact control – a task to hold or break eye contact on cue. Simple, but surprisingly powerful.
57. Gentle biting – symbolic nibbling on the shoulder or neck. Pay attention to your partner’s sensitivity and any skin reactions.
58. Light back-scratching – lines with nails or a brush for sensory tingles. Great as part of a massage.
59. Texture contrast (fur vs. silk) – alternating rougher and smoother touch. Sparks curiosity and tension.
60. Denim/leggings/latex aesthetics – focusing on a particular clothing material. Some like the look, others the cling.
61. Corsets and waist cinching (aesthetic) – the visual hourglass effect and the ritual of lacing. Always monitor comfort and breathing.
62. Garters and bodysuits – vintage vs. modern looks as visual play. It’s about fashion aesthetics and confidence.
63. High boots/over-the-knee boots – emphasis on leg silhouette and posture. For many, it’s an iconic visual spark.
64. Meaningful jewelry (choker, anklet) – symbolism of a role or commitment known only to the couple. Wearing it is voluntary and agreed.
65. Gentle hair pulling – a brief sensation at a safe angle with hand support. Always check comfort and intensity.
66. Whispering in the ear and earlobes – a close-up mix of breath and voice. Very effective for sensitive people.
67. At-home photoshoot – aesthetic photos with clear privacy rules. Photos are shared only by agreement.
68. Audio-only scenario – a call or voice message as a fantasy tool. Helps bridge distance.
69. Reading/listening to erotica together – text or audio as a trigger for talking about preferences. An easy way to learn what suits whom.
70. Writing fantasies together – creating a fantasy list and choosing safe items to try. Encourages openness and trust.
71. Slow Sunday rituals – unhurried time without distractions, coffee, and touch. It’s not about technique; it’s about presence.
72. Synchronized breathing/“tantric” inspiration – sitting face-to-face and matching your breath. For many, it’s sensual rather than explicit.Shibari/rope art (aesthetic tying) – artistic knots and patterns on the body, with an emphasis on safety (scissors for quick release, avoiding the neck) and communicating about comfort.
73. Rope harness over clothing – decorative rope “harnesses” worn over a dress or T-shirt; more about visuals than restraint.
74. Surgical/leather gloves – long gloves as a statement of elegance or power; for some, the smooth surface and material sound are key.
75. Sheer robes/kimono “reveal” – play with unveiling and layering fabrics; slow pacing and lighting highlight the silhouette.
76. Retro pin-up/vintage style – hairstyles, berets, polka-dot dresses, or bold eyeliner; combines nostalgia with an emphasis on curves.
77. “Power dressing” (blazers, vests, ties) – tailored clothing as a symbol of control and confidence; common in role-dynamic scenarios.
78. The ritual of brushing and braiding hair – slow, repetitive touch can be calming and focus attention.
79. The scent of a partner’s worn T-shirt – a specific scent “imprint” of a loved one; for many it evokes safety and attachment.
80. Body painting (water-based paints/markers) – drawing on skin with agreed motifs; hypoallergenic cosmetics and easy wash-off are important.
81. Body-to-body massage gel – a slippery, slow body-to-body massage; focuses on breathing rhythm and large muscle areas.
82. Shared bubble bath – warmth, scents, and music as a distraction-free reset; non-slip mats and ventilation are practical.
83. A curated “mood” playlist – one person chooses the music and pacing; a timer or song changes set the rhythm of touch.
84. Silent session (no words) – communicating only through gestures and touch; strengthens reading nonverbal cues.
85. Instant photo booth/at-home Polaroids (with consent) – spontaneous photos as part of play; storage and privacy rules are agreed in advance.
86. Artist and muse (role-play) – the “model” poses and the “artist” leads the scene; blends creativity, admiration, and clear boundaries.
87. Tailor and client – measuring, pins, and fabrics as aesthetic props; be careful with sharp notions.
88. Spa therapist and guest – care rituals, warm towels, and aromatherapy; professional boundaries are part of the script, not reality.
89. “Strangers in a hotel” – an agreed meeting “as if for the first time”; emphasis on alter egos and discretion.
90. Tango/kizomba – partner dancing with close hold and leading; rhythm and steps replace words.
91. Blind tastings – identifying tastes and scents while blindfolded; combines trust and sensory surprise.
92. An at-home scavenger hunt with clues – task cards hidden around the apartment; rewards and boundaries are agreed in advance.
93. Secret signals in public (PG-rated) – subtle gestures or codes meaning “yes/no/more,” without crossing social norms.
94. Emoji/text-only flirt – written play without photos or voice; builds tension and imagination, especially at a distance.
95. VR/AR avatar fantasies – virtual environments and characters with pre-set rules; device privacy and security are key.
96. Light and shadow (silhouettes/projector) – playing with a lamp or projector to cast shadows on a wall; highlights movement and body profile.
97. Chilled ice roller/metal spoons on skin – smooth, cold touch for contrast with skin warmth; test on a small area.
98. Makeover/“glam” makeup – getting ready together as a ritual; various styles (soft glam, goth, editorial) by agreement.
99. At-home fashion show/trying on outfits – slow changing with comments and ratings; it’s about self-presentation, not performance.
100. Zentai/lycra full-body suits – a tight, opaque bodysuit covering the whole body for a sense of anonymity and a “second skin.” People are drawn to the even pressure and smooth texture; it’s important to watch breathing and heat comfort, and to be able to remove the suit quickly.

100 examples of addictions and problematic habits

With addiction, what’s assessed is loss of control, continuing despite harm, and significant impairment in functioning. Not every habit is automatically an addiction.

1. Eating deodorant – falls under pica (the urge to eat non-food items); risk of poisoning and gastrointestinal irritation.
2. Pagophagia (compulsive ice eating) – often linked to iron deficiency; people consume large amounts of ice daily.
3. Geophagia (eating clay/soil) – traditionally described in some cultures, but with compulsion there’s risk of parasites and heavy metals.
4. Xylophagia (paper/cardboard) – compulsive chewing or swallowing paper, napkins, or book pages.
5. Amylophagia (starch/laundry starch) – seeking out raw starch or laundry starch (dangerous).
6. Chalkophagia (chalk) – craving chalk or calcium from unconventional sources (damages teeth and digestion).
7. Trichophagia (swallowing hair) – often alongside trichotillomania (hair pulling); risk of hairball bezoars in the stomach.
8. Myxophagia (soap/foam) – eating or chewing soap for taste/foaminess; irritates mucous membranes.
9. Detergent/fabric softener – licking or drinking small amounts; high risk of chemical injury.
10. Toothpaste – for menthol/fruit flavor; excessive amounts can upset the stomach and cause fluoride poisoning.
11. Cigarette ash/burnt matches – craving the taste of ash; high risk of toxins and heavy metals.
12. Spray foam/shaving foam – the texture can be tempting; swallowing is dangerous for lungs and stomach.
13. Silica gel/“do not eat” packets – curiosity about the crunchy texture; risk of blockage and choking.
14. Gum, taken to extremes – dozens of pieces a day; diarrhea and abdominal pain from sugar alcohols.
15. Raw baking doughs – the smell and texture can be appealing, but there’s a risk of salmonella/E. coli and digestive problems.
16. “Energy” breath sprays – repeatedly blasting menthol sprays for a brief “kick.”
17. Glues/markers (inhalants) – compulsive sniffing of glue or solvents; acute and long-term neurological risks.
18. Gasoline/diesel – sniffing – a strong, addictive smell; extremely dangerous fumes.
19. Nail polish/nail polish remover – inhalation – for an acetone “hit”; irritates airways and the nervous system.
20. Hand sanitizers/alcohol foams – licking – compulsive tasting; risk of alcohol and chemical poisoning.
21. Salt/seasoning mixes “by the spoon” – extreme doses of salt or MSG; risk of hypertension and electrolyte disturbances.
22. Raw coffee beans/coffee powder – for a caffeine jolt without a drink; irritates the stomach.
23. Activated charcoal (without a medical reason) – daily “cleansing”; binds medications and nutrients, risk of constipation.
24. Chalky wall dust – scraping plaster and licking dust; risk of lead in old paints.
25. Rubber/latex from gloves/balloons – chewing and swallowing pieces; risk of intestinal blockage.
26. Candles/wax – biting and swallowing; paraffin can form intestinal blockages.
27. Baking powder/baking soda in large doses – “for heartburn”; electrolyte disruption and heart rhythm issues.
28. Tartar/scraping teeth – compulsively breaking off pieces and swallowing them; damages enamel and gums.
29. “Tanorexia” (compulsive tanning/solarium) – compulsive UV exposure for mood improvement; risk of melanoma.
30. Dependence on decongestant nasal drops – daily use for months; “rhinitis medicamentosa” can develop (dependence on a clear nose).
31. Lip balm “dependence” – applying every few minutes; more of a compulsion, but can trigger anxiety without it.
32. Collecting/chewing pencil erasers – the taste/texture of rubber; small pieces can pose a choking hazard.
33. Raw rice grains – crunchy texture; damages teeth and irritates the stomach.
34. Powdered drink mixes/instant soups “dry” – intense flavor; high sodium and additives.
35. Addiction to cheap “shots” of vinegar/lemon – repeated consumption of concentrated acids; enamel erosion and reflux.
36. Laxatives used without indication – for a “empty” feeling or weight control; risk of dehydration and mineral imbalance.
37. Diuretics “for water loss” – compulsive use without reason; endangers the heart and kidneys.
38. Psychogenic polydipsia (excessive water drinking) – “water is healthy” taken to extremes; risk of hyponatremia (water intoxication).
39. Chalk/erasers from classroom boards – biting and swallowing leftover material; again, pica with risks.
40. Drain-cleaning foam/chemicals – obsessive sniffing – extremely toxic; can damage lungs and nerves.
41. Dependence on room sprays – compulsive inhaling of fragrances; irritates airways.
42. Stick deodorant – biting off pieces – “peppermint” taste; chemical burns to mucosa.
43. Dependence on menthol creams/sticks under the nose – repeated application for a “clean breath” feeling; irritation of skin and mucosa.
44. Chewing plastic straws/accessories – constant gnawing and swallowing micro-pieces of plastic.
45. Chewing aluminum foil – risk of gum and tooth injury; sometimes linked to sensory seeking.
46. Cloth chewing (chewing fabric/T-shirts) – textile as a “soother”; problematic if fibers are swallowed.
47. Morsicatio buccarum (compulsive cheek/mucosa biting) – usually a stress habit with mouth sores.
48. Onychophagia (severe nail biting) with swallowing – nail-bed infections, pain, dental problems.
49. Dermatillomania (picking scabs) and swallowing them – risk of scarring and infection; often linked to anxiety/OCD.
50. Heavy “detox” purging with herbs/teas – daily “cleanses” cause diarrhea and mineral imbalance.Talc (baby powder) – talcophagia – compulsive licking/eating of powder; risk of inhalation and toxic impurities.
51. Bentonite cat litter – swallowing granules; risk of swelling and intestinal blockage.
52. Cornstarch “by the spoon” – a form of amylophagia; may lead to constipation and nutritional deficiencies.
53. Drywall/plaster (gypsum) – chewing pieces of walls; risk of sulfates and contaminants.
54. Match heads – the sulfur taste can be tempting; risk of phosphorus poisoning.
55. Mothballs (naphthalene/para-dichlorobenzene) – sniffing or biting; toxic to the liver and blood.
56. Intense inhalation of incense smoke – deliberate “buzz” from smoke; irritates airways.
57. The smell of exhaust fumes – seeking a “heavy” odor; extremely dangerous oxides and soot.
58. Drinking perfume/cologne – ethanol plus denaturants; risk of poisoning.
59. Drinking mouthwash – misuse for an “alcohol hit”; damage to mucosa and liver.
60. Cough syrup (DXM) used without indication – euphoria vs. nausea, psychosis; high-risk.
61. Nitrous oxide cartridges (“whippets”) – inhalation – neurological risks (B12 deficiency).
62. Compressed air/“duster” – inhalation – hypoxia and heart rhythm disturbances.
63. Chewing dried nail polish – chemical irritation, tooth damage.
64. Eating cosmetic powders/makeup or clay masks – contaminants, heavy metals.
65. Cat/dog kibble – compulsive snacking; microbial risks and nutrient imbalance.
66. Flake fish food – salty/chemically treated; not suitable for consumption.
67. Excessive sucking on antacid tablets (CaCO₃) – hypercalcemia, constipation.
68. Deliberately sniffing bleach/chlorine – lung irritation, risk of chemical pneumonitis.
69. “I like the smell of gas” (mercaptan) – seeking gas odor – highly dangerous, risk of poisoning.
70. Essential oils – drinking or obsessive inhalation – mucosal irritation, liver toxins.
71. Cerumenophagia (eating earwax) – hygiene and infection risks.
72. Mucophagia (eating nasal mucus) – infections, mucosal damage from picking.
73. Chewing wood and paint from pencils – splinters; older pigments may contain metals.
74. Metallophagia (coins, keys – chewing/sucking) – risk of broken teeth and heavy metals.
75. Intentional swallowing of coins – common emergency cases; risk of intestinal obstruction.
76. Hyalophagia (glass) – extremely dangerous injuries.
77. Potting soil/perlite – geophagia in the home setting; parasites and chemicals.
78. Charcoal briquettes (non-activated charcoal) – toxic binders, intestinal blockage.
79. Polystyrene (“styrofoam”) – chewing/eating – choking, digestive complications.
80. Kitchen sponges – chewing – bacteria, risk of swallowing pieces.
81. Foam from mattresses/covers (polyurethane) – chemical additives, intestinal blockages.
82. Cigarette butts (not ash) – toxins, nicotine, bacteria.
83. Drinking ink from pens – dyes and solvents; gastrointestinal irritation.
84. Drinking eye drops (e.g., vasoconstrictors) – systemic effects, poisoning.
85. Sniffing shoe polish – organic solvents, nerve damage.
86. Sniffing asphalt/tar – carcinogenic components, headaches.
87. Obsessively sniffing the “new sneaker smell” (glues) – irritating fumes.
88. Drinking hydrogen peroxide “for cleansing” – risk of gas embolism, mucosal burns.
89. Iodine solutions/drops – drinking – thyroid disorders, intoxication.
90. Dependence on enemas without a medical reason – electrolyte disturbances, bowel injury.
91. “Licking” batteries/terminals for a tingling sensation – burns, arrhythmias.
92. Overuse of numbing sprays/gels (benzocaine) – methemoglobinemia, mucosal damage.
93. Capsaicin/“warming” ointments – compulsive application – dermatitis, first-degree burns.
94. Dermatophagia (biting one’s own skin) – chronic wounds and infections.
95. Keratophagia (chewing calluses/corns) – bleeding, infection.
96. Trichotemnomania (compulsive cutting/shaving hair) – bald spots, social anxiety.
97. Chewing “lead” (graphite) from pencils – digestive irritation, risk from additives in the core.
98. Eating cosmetic clays/“beauty clay” (kaolin, bentonite) as a “detox” – constipation, binding of medications and nutrients.
99. Bibliosmia – compulsively seeking the smell of old books/paper – not toxic, but it can interfere with everyday functioning, especially if tied to other rituals.
100. Eating fabric-softener dryer sheets – compulsively chewing or swallowing scented dryer sheets. They contain quaternary ammonium compounds (“quats”) and fragrances, which can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, cause nausea, and, with long-term use, burden the liver; there’s also a risk of intestinal blockage.

Myths vs. facts (what professional classifications and research say)

People often say that “everyone is addicted to their phone these days.” Clinically, however, what’s evaluated is mainly the degree of life disruption and loss of control—not simply the amount of screen time. Similarly, BDSM and other kinks aren’t automatically disorders; they’re diagnosed only when the interest causes significant suffering or there’s a risk of harm without consent. We also know that addiction isn’t just “weak willpower”; the neurobiology of reward and learning plays a major role, which is why structured psychotherapies and certain medications can help. In disorders such as gambling disorder or gaming disorder, the pattern of behavior is assessed across months, not based on a single weekend.

When to seek help—and what actually works

Seek help if you feel you’re losing control, if the behavior leads to conflict at home or at work, or if you catch yourself lying and hiding it. With addictions that trigger health problems, support groups and family counseling can be very helpful, as can getting timely treatment for your situation.

Video to watch

What is addiction? (NIDA/NIH – scientists answer):

One-breath summary

We talk about a disorder when there is loss of control, significant distress and harm, or when consent is missing. By contrast, many “kinks” among consenting adults are simply different ways of working with aesthetics, tension, and closeness. But if you feel your behavior is getting out of control, professional help is available—and effective.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association – DSM-5-TR (official overview): https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm
2. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – The Science of Addiction (basics): https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/basics-addiction
3. WHO – Gaming disorder: Questions and answers (Q&A): https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/gaming-disorder
4. APA – What is Gambling Disorder? (patient information): https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gambling-disorder/what-is-gambling-disorder