sexual sadism

n. A paraphilia in which sexual arousal occurs as the result of inflicting physical or mental pain on another person as a means of exercising control over him or her. There is a gradation of sadism as many people enjoy exercising control and inflicting mild pain on their partners as in love bites or spanking, which are common sexual practices. Inflicting pain on a nonconsenting person or in a way that is not enjoyed by the other person or that causes marked personal distress or interpersonal problems becomes a sexual disorder.