SSC
Definition
SSC stands for Safe, Sane & Consensual: a commonly used ethical guideline within BDSM that emphasizes that all actions must be safe, sensible, and voluntary.
Explanation of SSC
SSC originated in the 1980s as a response to misunderstandings and negative perceptions surrounding BDSM. The term became a way of making it clear that BDSM between consenting adults has nothing to do with abuse or violence, but is based on conscious choices, mutual respect, and connection. Safe refers to taking precautions, being aware of risks, and ensuring physical and psychological safety.
Sane is about common sense, realistically assessing boundaries and emotions, and not engaging in reckless or unstable situations.
Consensual means that all parties involved fully and explicitly agree to what is happening, including the option to stop.
For many BDSM practitioners, SSC is a moral compass. It helps to think clearly about the dynamics between Dominant and sub and to take responsibility. Although other models emerged later, such as RACK, SSC remains the basic rule that the community falls back on when it comes to ethics, integrity, and caring for each other.
Safety & points of attention
SSC sounds simple, but it requires maturity and honesty.
‘Safe’ means that you know each other, have your equipment in order, understand the risks, and do not play under the influence of substances.
“Sane” requires emotional stability, clarity in expectations, and recognizing situations in which someone is not ready to play—for example, due to stress, pain, fear, or overstimulation.
“Consensual” means ongoing consent: no pressure, no manipulation, no tacit assumptions.
This is especially important in dynamics where power is exchanged; the sub must be able to trust that his or her stop or doubts will be taken seriously. Aftercare is also part of SSC, as it is an essential part of care and safety.
Related terms SSC
BDSM
Consensual
Consent
RACK
Safeword
SSICK
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