Sadistic personality disorder

Sadistic personality disorder was historically defined by a pattern of cruelty, humiliation, and the use of physical violence or threats to control others, often for the pleasure of domination. One theory suggests it can be a way to boost self-esteem by experiencing positive feelings from harming others, especially in response to disrespect or anger. The term sadism (French sadism) or “love of cruelty,” was coined in 1888 from the name of Count Donatien A.F. de Sade (1740-1815). Not a marquis, though usually now called one, he was notorious for the cruel sexual practices described in his novels.