Domestic discipline
Domestic Discipline, or simply DD, is the enforcement of order, usually by punishment for infringement of rules applied in a domestic context, normally between members of a household. In the generally voluntary context of adult relationships, it is specifically applied to the practice of interspousal discipline. Commonly in a heterosexual relationship, the disciplined is the woman and the disciplinary is the man.
Ideally, DD is the loving, consistent use of discipline as a positive way to enhance communication, deepen intimacy and reinforce relationship commitment. The discipline would normally include physical punishment, especially spanking, but centres around rules of behaviour laid down by one party and nominally agreed to by the other. Couples who base their relationship on their religion may also include prayer and other forms of godly worship as a means of correction.
Practicioners argue that domestic discipline is distinct from both domestic abuse and activities such as erotic spanking and BDSM-style domination and submission. Switching is unusual in a DD relationship.
As a relationship style, it is often seen as a stylised form of 'traditional' relationship intended to help the woman overcome negative behaviours that harm herself, her relationship or others. In creating loving limits to her behaviour and firm consequences for harmful activities, it aims to improve the relationship over time and demonstrates a loving connection to and physical correction from a caring partner.
Use outside BDSM
The term domestic discipline is used in other contexts outside of BDSM in ways that are analogous. For example, in education, it is discipline applied by the educator, mainly of a minor and at home; in youth movements, it is the disciplining of minors.
