Mechanophilia
Updated:Mechanophilia is a paraphilia characterized by a sexual attraction to machines, cars, helicopters, airplanes, or other mechanical objects. Individuals with mechanophilia experience sexual arousal and desire towards mechanical entities, often anthropomorphizing them and forming emotional connections. This attraction can manifest in various ways, from a fascination with the aesthetics and power of machines to a desire for physical intimacy with mechanical objects.
Additional Information
Mechanophilia is considered a non-normative sexual interest and is relatively rare. It's important to note that having an interest in or appreciation for machines doesn't necessarily indicate mechanophilia; the defining factor is the presence of sexual and romantic attraction. Like other paraphilias, mechanophilia exists on a spectrum, and the intensity of attraction can vary among individuals.
Mental health professionals generally only consider mechanophilia a disorder if it causes significant distress or impairment in an individual's life or if it involves non-consensual behavior. Many people with mechanophilic interests lead normal lives and may incorporate their attraction into their sexual practices in safe, private ways.
Examples
A person feeling sexually aroused by the sight and sound of a powerful sports car engine
An individual forming a romantic attachment to their motorcycle, attributing human-like qualities to it