In fetishism, sexual interest typically centers on some inanimate object, such an article of clothing or some body part. According to DSM-IV a fetish is diagnosed only when the object is inanimate. But most sex researchers have not made this distinction. As is generally true for the paraphilias, males are most commonly involved I cases of fetishism. Reported cases of female fetishes are extremely rare. The range of fetishistic objects includes hair, ears, hands, underclothing, shoes, perfume and similar objects associated with the opposite sex. The mode and gratification varies considerably, but it commonly involves kissing, fondling, tasting or selling the objects.

Fetishism does not commonly interfere with the rights of others, except in an incidental way such as asking the partner to wear the object during sexual encounters. A number of men have a strong sexual fascination for paraphernalia such as brassieres, garter belts, hose and high heels. Although, such men do not typically meet diagnostic criteria for fetishism, because the paraphernalia are not necessary or strongly preferred for sexual arousal (as is necessary to be diagnosed for having a fetish), they do illustrate the high frequency of fetish-like preferences among men.

To obtain the required object, a fetishistic person may commit burglary, theft or even assault. Probably the articles most commonly stolen by fetishistic individuals are women’s undergarments. In some cases, the excitement and suspense of the criminal act itself typically reinforces sexual stimulation and sometimes actually constitute the fetish.

Frequently fetishistic behavior consists of masturbation in association with a fetishistic object. Here, of course it is difficult to draw a line between fetishistic activity and the effort to increase the sexual excitation and satisfaction of masturbation through the use of pictures and other articles associated with a desired sexual object. Using such objects in masturbation is a common practice and not usually considered pathological. Where antisocial practice such as breaking and entering is involved, it is considered to be fetishistic. Most theories of the etiology of fetishism emphasize the importance of classical conditioning.

Types of Fetish:

Transvestic Fetishism: the achievement of sexual arousal and satisfaction by cross-dressing — that is, dressing as a member of the opposite sex is called transvestic fetishism. Typically, the onset of transvestic fetishism is during adolescence and involves masturbation while wearing female clothing or undergarments.