This is a huge issue in Spanko World. Some see it as non-sexual and get some sort of emotional, cathartic or sensual 'hit' or an endorphin high and enjoy it in a different way. I can sort of understand, but suspect some (and I do mean some, not all) may be kidding themselves - especially when they have a good reason to see it as a non-sexual act because of their particular circumstances or belief system.

For me it is sexual, not because I inevitably follow spanking with actual sex (it's a great idea, but not mandatory:>>;D ) but because I find the idea sexually exciting and thinking about spanking is sexually arousing for me.

I was thinking about this the other day and had new perspective. Something I read a while ago made me realise that I (and I assume loads of other spankos) may have conditioned myself into my sexual connection by positively reinforcing idea of it being sexual.

Before I was sexually aware I found idea of spanking exciting. I had no experience, there was a thrill at idea. I would think about spanking and feel excited, but in a vague way. Only after I became sexually active did I choose to make spanking a sexual fantasy and as it was used as a fantasy I was 'rewarded' by the thoughts with sexual satisfaction. I therefore reinforced the idea that it was sexy because not only was it exciting, the thoughts became associated with sexual satisfaction.

So while for those who see it as non-sexual but satisfying in other ways, then I assume the connection with sexual satisfaction is perhaps not there. If spanking is 'satisfying' like bungee jumping, running a marathon or hang gliding it is non-sexual.

Also perhaps on the other hand, if one is into bungee jumping, running a marathon or hang gliding one could perhaps (and possibly some do)get a sexual thrill from the activities by incorporating them into fantasy leading to sexual satisfaction...