Exhibitionism is the practice of getting aroused by being seen naked, partially clothed, or engaged in sexual activity by others, whether those observers are willing participants or accidental viewers. In a kink context, it usually refers to consensual scenarios where the person being watched has chosen to be seen.
For many exhibitionists, the thrill comes from the tension between vulnerability and control, the moment of being noticed, desired, or exposed. It often shows up in public flashing, performing for a partner, camming, or attending play parties where being watched is part of the setting.
Worth knowing: Consent matters on both sides: observers should be willing participants, and scenes involving public spaces or shared events call for clear agreements about who can watch, where, and what happens if someone becomes uncomfortable.
Also called: flashing, public play, voyeurism (as the counterpart), camming, showing off, nudism-adjacent exhibition, consensual exposure
