Fetishism is primarily characterized by sexual arousal from what?

Fetishism is primarily characterized by sexual arousal derived from nonliving objects or specific body parts. This means that individuals with fetishes may find particular items, such as clothing, shoes, or other inanimate objects, to be sexually stimulating. Additionally, some may experience arousal from specific body parts, such as feet or hair, rather than from sexual activity with a partner.

This understanding is rooted in the DSM-5, which classifies fetishistic disorder under paraphilic disorders when these feelings cause significant distress or impairment. The nuances of fetishism include how the object or body part becomes the focus of sexual interest and is often central to the individual's sexual experiences.

Other options, while related to sexual behavior or identity, do not encapsulate the essence of fetishism. For instance, cross-dressing pertains more to the act of wearing clothing typically associated with the opposite gender and is not primarily about the objects or body parts themselves. Similarly, sexual dominance involves power dynamics in sexual relationships, and public displays of affection focus on interpersonal interactions rather than specific fetishistic objects or body parts.