Foot Fetishism

Definition and Overview

• Foot fetishism, also known as foot partialism or podophilia, is a sexual interest in feet.
• Considered the most common form of sexual fetishism for otherwise non-sexual objects or body parts.

Points of Attraction

• Shape and Size: Includes feet, soles, toes.
• Accessories: Toe rings, anklets.
• Treatments: Massaging, painting toenails.
• State of Dress: Includes barefoot, flip flops, ballet flats, high heels, etc.
• Foot Odor: Smell plays a significant role.
• Sensory Interaction: Activities like tickling, licking, kissing.

Extensions and Related Fetishes

• Shoe fetishism, socks, olfactophilia (odor fetishism), and tickling.
• Foot Binding: Historically considered by Freud as a form of fetishism.

Odor Fetishism

• 1994 study found 45% of those with a foot fetish are aroused by smelly socks or feet.

Diagnosis of Fetishism Disorder

• Possible diagnosis if behavior causes distress and involves non-living objects over six months.

Prevalence Study

• 2006 University of Bologna study examined internet discussions with 5,000 participants.
• Foot fetishism is prevalent with 47% preferring feet and toes.
• 32% in groups related to footwear.
• Ian Kerner states it's the most common sexual fetish related to the body.

Search Trends

• 2006 AOL data showed "feet" as the most common fetish search.

Gender Differences

• More common in men than women; Belgian survey showed 17% of men vs. 4% of women expressed fetish interest in feet.

Causes and Theories

• No consensus on specific causes.
• Possible neural crosstalk between feet and genitals in the somatosensory cortex.
• Early imprinting (Freud and Fenichel theories).
• Feet as a response to sexually transmitted infections.

Historical and Cultural References

• Ancient Greek poems and Hindu texts feature early mentions of foot fetishism.

Further Reading and Related Topics

• Body odour and sexual attraction, Shoe fetishism, Footjob, etc.

References

• Comprehensive list of studies, books, and articles cited in the Wikipedia article.