The Element Encyclopedia

by Theresa Cheung
Dreams in which one partner dominates the other often have sexual overtones.

If you are in the role of dominator, this may mask sexual insecurity; if you are in the role of the submissive, this may mask incestuous desire for a parent. On the other hand, such dreams may stem from the strong desire to gain the upper hand in a relationship. Whips often symbolize a desire for, or fear of, domination in dreams. A similar interpretation can be attributed to accompanying sadomasochistic equipment such as silver chains, leather clothing and straps, and black boots and heels. Fetishes are a fixation on an external object without which there would be no sex act, and in dreams they can highlight fear, immaturity and a lack of libido