Well, I have a friend that is a cutter and also a masochist. So, I believe it can be both. The endorphins released gives them a high/rush and they feel better about themselves afterwards. Not necessarily needing to be told to do it.
As a domme, I think I'm very easy going, stern but easy going. I love to laugh. I won't call it a "switch" but submissives are people too! If you don't listen to my orders, you're just asking for all hell to break lose