Dungeon Monitor Resources
With the blessing of Stefanos & Shay
In partnership with PDXCinder and MxJosiePosie, and with the generous support of Stefanos & Shay, the Bondage Soup community has adopted and adapted the Playspace Monitor Resources, as you can refer to at TwistedWindows.com. We express our gratitude for the opportunity to present the Bondage Soup DM Training, utilizing this scenario-based training approach. We firmly believe that this method is highly effective in imparting a comprehensive array of information to individuals who are committed to contributing their time and professionalism. Our collective aim is to enhance the creation of safer play spaces, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Dungeon Monitor Training Overview:
Our training philosophy is rooted in a customer service approach, emphasizing the importance of politeness, respect, and proactive facilitation.
Key Principles:
Customer Service Role: DMs are facilitators focused on helping to enhance the overall play experience.
Lifeguards, Not Police or Coaches: DMs act as lifeguards, intervening only in cases of immediate danger to life, limb, or venue property.
Strategic Timing of Interventions: Interruptions during scenes are rare and should be conducted in the least intrusive manner, addressing serious safety concerns.
Post-Scene Communication: Non-urgent issues are addressed with players after their scene and aftercare, avoiding unsolicited feedback on non-safety-critical techniques.
Management of Observers: DMs play a crucial role in managing spectators, ensuring they respect scenes in progress and maintaining awareness of potential boundary and consent issues.
Observer Management:
Respectful Conduct: Observers are reminded to avoid disruptive behavior, such as engaging in social conversations, taking out cell phones, or attempting to join scenes without consent.
Identifying Issues: DMs serve as vigilant eyes and ears, detecting potential boundary violations or rule infractions, and promptly notifying event hosts.
Operational Considerations:
Spatial Awareness: DMs move unobtrusively, monitoring bystander pathways and conversation volumes, ensuring a balanced and respectful environment.
Complexity of Role: Acknowledging the nuanced nature of DM responsibilities, training aims to prepare individuals for common scenarios and encourage critical thinking.
Ethical Practices:
Consent: Strict adherence to explicit consent, even in urgent situations, is paramount.
Pronoun Sensitivity: Mindful use of pronouns and honorifics, defaulting to gender-neutral language, promotes inclusivity.
Space-Specific Details: DMs are expected to be well-versed in space-specific details, including suspension points, electrical outlets, first aid locations, provided DM kits, communication tools, and organizational rules.
Continued Training: In addition to foundational DM training, ongoing education is recommended, covering CPR/first aid, diversity, equity, and inclusion workshops, anti-racism training, trauma-informed intervention, and safety and risk evaluation for bondage scenarios.
Our commitment is to equip DMs with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of their role while fostering a safe and inclusive playspace environment. For further details on DM training, please reach out—we are eager to share.