What is VICSS?
Voluntary Informed Consensual Sane Safe
Voluntary: All partners involved in Erotic Power Exchange activity of whatever nature should decide to do so of their own free wll and choice and without any force applied. Sometimes the element of "force" may be hidden. Such can be the case if either of the parties faces (or fears to be faced with) economical or social repercussions if he or she does not go along with what the other partner(s) wants. This may be the case for example if colleagues at work enter into EPE activities or within a marriage. If either of the parties feels forced, for whatever reason, the situation is non-voluntary.
Informed: All partners involved in Erotic Power Exchange should base their decision to do so on correct information and should be able to judge the situation and possible consequences. A simple "yes" often is not enough, especially in cases where it is doubtful whether the person saying "yes" does not or cannot know what the implications are or can be.
Consensual: All partners involved should agree to what is going to happen or is happening and should have the possibility to evaluate previous decisions in the event they are faced with emotions, reactions or information they feel is of importance to their situation. Knowledge of the situation is mandatory before an informed agreement can be negotiated.
Sane: Decisons with respect to Erotic Power Exchange activities should be made when all partners involved are of a clear mind. Consent as a result of the use of drugs, alcohol or the rush of the situation is not consent.
Safe: Erotic Power Exchange activities should be safe, both physically and mentally and in the event physical or mental risks are taken - for example in an edge play situation - people should be well informed abut the possible risks, implications and repercussions. Proper protection of disease control is mandatory.