Power Exchange
Our Definition
a practice which involves one or more dominant(s) taking control and exercising influence over one of more submissive(s) who willingly relinquish their own authority.
Real Life Examples
When they are at home, Jazz gives Bethesda full control of their general plans, inside and outside of play.
Billiam follows rules set out for him by his dominant partner.
Lucian can always ask their partner to hold the reins of their day to day decision making.
Common Practices
Everyone is different! You'll see this repeated throughout our website and glossary.
Power exchange is particularly complex, so we outlined four specific types of power exchange on their own pages. Common general power exchange practices include, but certainly aren't limited to:
- falling into one or more specific categories of power exchange which are defined on their own pages.
- Communicating with partners early on about what kinds of power exchange is desired
- Having continued conversations with partner(s) as dynamics grow and change over time
- Writing a contract and agreeing to it’s terms
- Having a set of rituals, rules, or protocols whether formal or informal.
Got a beef with our definition?
Of course we don't speak for everyone! If you feel we are missing additional info, context, facts, history, or data, please email us and let us know!
While we can't promise every suggestion will make it, we'll always be working to keep this glossary thorough and inclusive!