Domination and Submission


In the context of fanfiction, "domination/submission" (often abbreviated as Dom/Sub) refers to a power dynamic within a relationship where one character (the "dominant" or "Dom") exerts control, while the other character (the "submissive" or "Sub") willingly surrenders control and may even crave that role. This dynamic can be explored in various ways, ranging from sexual dominance and submission to power dynamics in romantic, social, or professional settings.


Key aspects of Dom/Sub dynamics in fanfiction:

Control and Power:

The Dom exerts control over the Sub, which can manifest in various ways, such as physically, emotionally, or sexually.

Consent and Trust:
The Sub willingly submits, trusting the Dom to guide and potentially harm them.

Psychological Role-Playing:
Dom/Sub is often explored as a psychological role-playing dynamic where both characters embrace their roles and desires.

Love and Care:
While the power dynamic is a key element, it can also be a basis for strong emotional connection and even love.

Varied Interpretations:
Dom/Sub can be interpreted differently by different authors and readers, with some focusing on physical dominance and others exploring more psychological aspects.




The dominant may have certain ideas as to what he/she may want/enjoy doing to/with their submissives, the submissives may also have certain ideas as to what they would like done to/with them by a dominant or dominants. Before any “scene” or “play” can/should take place, they need to discuss their interests, and limitations to find their common ground, and come to mutual agreement/s regarding they’re prospective activities. And all limitations must be respected and adhered to. There is no relationship w/o respect and trust, and no relationship will last w/o them.

Therefore, for example, you cannot do something to a submissive, unless they have told you it is ok to do said thing to them. It is not ok to “surprise” them with something they said you CAN do to them, UNLESS they SAID you can surprise them w/said act.



Collars

Many submissives in a submissive relationship wear a collar to indicate their submissive status and commitment. It can be much like a wedding band, except that only the submissive partner wears one. The traditional collar is a neck band in leather or metal, chosen, designed, and even crafted by the dominant partner. Some subs may wear a "symbolic collar", often a bracelet or ankle chain, which is more subdued than the traditional collar and can pass in non-BDSM situations. It is not uncommon for a sub to have several collars for special occasions.[24] Collars are integral for animal roleplay.

BDSM

Many of the most common sexual roleplays involve a power differential and form part of the dominance and submission aspect of BDSM. Roles can be general designations of power positions, or very specific, detailed fantasies.



What the Dom/sub dynamic actually is...

While Dom/sub dynamics are primarily found in kink, they actually play out in most forms of sex. One person is usually the more submissive partner, while the other is more dominant. But within the context of BDSM, these dynamics become even more explicit. This is when two or more people engage in consensual power exchange. The sub WILLINGLY hands over the power within the scene to the Dominant.