masochism

n. 1. The characteristic of being sexually aroused by stimulation most people would consider painful and especially the intentional infliction of pain in a sexual context. It often includes a desire to give up power and responsibility and to submit to another who has appropriately arousing intentions to dominate and/or inflict pain. 2. In psychoanalysis, the tendency to bring shame, suffering, and humiliation on oneself as a result of guilt leading to self-hate and self-aggression. 3. Commonly used about anyone who is self-defeating or maintains an abusive relationship or brings shame or punishment on himself/ herself.