Fetishism
ICD-10 F65.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fetishism.
Fetishism is characterized by a strong sexual attraction to non-living objects or specific body parts that are not typically considered sexual in nature. This condition falls under the category of paraphilic disorders, where the individual experiences recurrent and intense sexual arousal from these atypical stimuli, leading to significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Fetishism can manifest in various forms, such as a focus on materials (e.g., leather, rubber) or body parts (e.g., feet, hair). The diagnosis requires that the fetishistic behavior is not better explained by another mental disorder and that it has persisted for at least six months. Individuals with fetishism may struggle with impulse control, as their sexual arousal is often contingent upon the presence of the fetish object. This can lead to maladaptive behaviors, impacting interpersonal relationships and overall quality of life. Understanding the nuances of fetishism is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment, as it intersects with personality disorders and gender identity issues, necessitating a comprehensive approach to care.
Detailed patient history, including onset, duration, and impact of fetishistic behaviors.
Patients presenting with distress related to their fetish, seeking therapy for relationship issues.
Consideration of co-occurring mental health disorders and the patient's overall psychosocial context.
Assessment of sexual history and behaviors, including the nature of the fetish and its impact on sexual functioning.
Patients seeking counseling for sexual dysfunction or relationship challenges stemming from fetishistic interests.
Sensitivity to patient privacy and stigma associated with fetishism.
Used when providing therapy to address issues related to fetishism.
Document the nature of the fetish, treatment goals, and patient progress.
Psychiatrists should ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to the individual's needs.
Fetishism involves a strong sexual attraction to non-living objects or specific body parts that is necessary for sexual arousal, while a sexual preference is a more general attraction that does not impair functioning or cause distress.
