This is a controversial take on a serious issue, and I know my experiences are not the same as others.
When I was in high school, I used to cut and punch myself. I really got off on the adrenaline ...
Large hands grip her curves roughly
Subtly revealing his strength
As his fingers dig into her flesh.
Soft lips caress her bare skin
Before he bares his teeth
And bites down ha ...
Masochists enjoy having pain inflicted on them. It might not be all kinds of pain, but only specific types. They usually match up with sadists because sadists enjoy inflicting pain.
Masochists tend to be submissive, but can be switches too. Masochists know what it feels to take a punishment do can make effective tops in a scene. Some Dominants have masochistic streaks, enjoying a certain level of pain themselves. Masochism is centred on the pleasure of pain but many masochists enjoy being controlled and dominated too.
Masochists are often bratty, to get the pain they want. The worst torture for a masochist is totally withholding punishment as they crave pain.
In day-to-day life masochists may find non kinky ways to satisfy their desires such as pushing themselves hard during exercise. Masochists often use pain to feel free from the pressures of day to day life.