A new survey conducted by adult novelty manufacturer CalExotics at Harvard Sex Week earlier this month reveals that fetishes are much more common than we think.  Nearly half of those surveyed say they either have a sexual fetish or believe they have a sexual fetish, and more than 50 percent have told a partner about a fetish they find interesting. The survey results were gathered during an interactive “Fetishes A-Z” course taught by CalExotics’ resident sexologist, Dr. Jill McDevitt, during a keynote at Harvard Sex Week on November 1, 2018.

“As a topic that garners lots of emotional reactions, the Harvard Sex Week attendees were still able to step back and engage the material in an academic way, challenging their own biases and asking smart questions,” said McDevitt. “Students at the class were highly engaged and thoughtful in their responses. They were also able to have lots of fun!”

Key Fetish Findings:

• When asked about attitudes toward fetishes, 22% said “yes please,” and another 40% said “I’m intrigued.”  Only 18% thought fetishes were “kinda weird”
• 43% said they either have or believe they have a fetish
• 45% said that a partner has expressed interest in a specific fetish
• 53% have told a partner about a fetish they are interested in
• When compared side-by-side with a list of existing fetishes, the ones that emerged as most interesting to the students were humiliation and power

Other Survey Findings:

• More than 80% said they were confident or somewhat confident with their sexual abilities
• Individuals favoring a submissive role outnumbered those preferring a dominant role two to one
• 40% have tried anal sex before; approximately 24% had participated in an orgy or threesome
• 46% and 37% have engaged in BDSM and role/fantasy play, respectively

“Our mission is to create a safe space for the community where sex is discussed in a positive and educational way, and fetishes are definitely part of that conversation,” said Harvard Sex Week Co-Chair and college senior, Lita Peña.  “Similar to CalExotics, we want to promote the concept that sex doesn’t have to be a ‘one-size-fits-all’ topic or something we should scorn.”

Two of the biggest takeaways cited by class participants were that they shouldn’t be quick to judge others based on their sexual preferences; and no matter what, consent is most important.  “If it’s not hurting anyone, then it’s ok,” added a student who asked to remain anonymous. 

Founded in 2011, Harvard Sex Week is an annual event run by student organization Sexual Health Education and Advocacy Throughout Harvard College (SHEATH), that promotes a more thorough, modern understanding of sex and sexuality. CalExotics has been a long-standing partner of Harvard Sex Week, providing education and product, donating more than $8,000 in sex toys for this year’s event.