What exactly is a fetish—and how is it different from a paraphilia?

In this episode of Let’s Talk About Sex, Dr. Laura Prescott breaks down the psychology behind fetishes, helping you understand what’s typical, what’s considered atypical, and when a sexual interest might become a clinical concern.

You’ll learn:

• The key differences between fetishes and paraphilias

• Why many fetishes are completely normal and harmless

• When a fetish crosses into a diagnosable disorder

• How classical conditioning may play a role in the development of sexual preferences

• Common fetishes (like feet, shoes, and clothing) and some lesser-known—and surprising—examples

Dr. Prescott also explores the wide spectrum of human sexual interest, from the familiar to the unusual, emphasizing an important clinical principle: it’s not the behavior itself, but the level of distress or impairment it causes that determines whether intervention is needed.

Whether you're curious, studying psychology, or simply looking to better understand human sexuality, this episode offers a thoughtful, stigma-free look at one of the most misunderstood topics in sexual health.

• (00:00:03) - Fun with Fetishes
• (00:01:31) - What are Fetishes and How Do They Develop?
• (00:04:24) - Ph paraphilias, or sexual oddities