Dark Dynamics: When Your Dynamic Doesn’t Always Play By the Rules

Dark dynamics can take many forms—dark age play, consensual non-consent (CNC) dynamics, emotional S&M, long-term gaslighting, and many other manifestations. Yet all of these experiences often fall outside of the normative center of BDSM and power exchange, sometimes challenging community assumptions about what is safe or reasonable. In this class, we will explore dark dynamics through a practical lens. What is a dark dynamic and what does it require? Why would someone want to pursue a dark dynamic? What does risk mitigation look like in a dark dynamic, and what happens when something goes wrong? Please note: this class will explore themes that may be challenging for some individuals. The presenters ask that attendees come to class with a sense of openness to those challenges and in an overall spirit of YKINMKATOK. (Your Kink Is Not My Kink And That’s OK.)