I have to wonder where the negativity is coming from?
many masters make requests like this, and it's not as though they are not reading the answers. In situations like this, it's both the Dom & the subs responsibility to ask questions & research things that are not known to them.
Why should it solely be the Dom's responsibility to find answers that neither party knows the answer to?
What does researching information per a Dom's request have to do with being collared?
#1 - it would be foolish to allow someone to collar you with such basic knowledge of the BDSM lifestyle
#2 - the person doing the research should be dependant on the dynamic of the relationship.
#3 - ickleimi's Dom may have been wanting *her* to research different punishments for her own reference to see what she may or may NOT like.
#4 - ickleimi & her Dom may both be new & looking to forums for answers & suggestions.
Without knowing each person individually or the specific dynamic of their relationship, I do not think it's fair to put down her Dom for making her do the research (many of us have to) nor question his ability to collar her when we don't know what makes their kink work for them.
Researching info like this could be used as a tool for both parties. If she Likes the crop as a punishment, He should look into why - because she loves it or hates it? All new subs should research what they may or may not like so their Dom knows how best to proceed with their sub based on *their* needs.
Remember ickleimi,
your needs are just as important as his.
If you are questioning his requests, I think you should direct your concerns to Him directly. Forums are great to get ideas & a general consensus of ideas, etc., but no one but You & Him can possibly know what works best for your relationship and if he is a caring Dom, he will be open & receptive to your questions & concerns.
best of luck,
~ openlyrefined