Discussion Group

A discussion group is a real time or online group for individuals to discuss various topics among peers or seniors.

Members provide each other with various types of help, usually nonprofessional and nonmaterial, for a particular shared, usually burdensome, characteristic. Members with the same issues may come together to share coping strategies, advanced techniques, to seek advice, to feel more empowered, and/or for a sense of community.

The help may take the form of providing and evaluating relevant information, relating personal experiences, listening to and accepting others' experiences, providing sympathetic understanding and establishing social networks. A support group may also work to inform the public or engage in advocacy.

Within the realm of BDSM some types of discussion groups are typical:

• LGBT
• Survivors of Rape/Abuse
• Groups for Power Exchange
• Groups for D-types
• Groups for s-types
• Groups for Spiritualism
• any other topic that might relate to BDSM that has a wide enough appeal to generate regular and meaningful discussion.

Discussion groups held in real-time often have the same etiquette and protocols of a munch. Discussion groups for d-types and s-types are often held on the same nights/times in different locations so that both types may experience their respective groups at a time that is convenient for their partners as well. Many of these discussion groups will have a specific topic or topics of discussion to help direct conversation for a single meeting.