PROF MAURICE M5 Assignment 2: LASA: Etiology and Treatment

Paraphilic Disorders

Pedophilic Disorder

Pedophilia involves prepubescent children, generally children under the age of thirteen years. Pedophilia is not diagnosed when the child has reached sexual maturity (puberty). Sexual behavior with children who have reached puberty but are under the age of consent is illegal, but it is not classified as a DSM disorder. In spite of a few highly sensationalized cases in the media, approximately 99% of all pedophiles (adults sexually attracted to children under the age of thirteen years) are males.

Exhibitionistic Disorder

Exhibitionism is sexual arousal from exposing one’s genitals to an unsuspecting stranger.

Frotteuristic Disorder

Frotteurism is touching or rubbing against a nonconsenting person. This could be the act of rubbing genitals against a stranger in an elevator or a subway.

Voyeuristic Disorder

Voyeurism is sexual arousal from observing an unsuspecting person who is naked, getting undressed, or engaged in sexual activity.

These four disorders (pedophilic disorder, exhibitionistic disorder, frotteuristic disorder, and voyeuristic disorder) involve illegal behaviors and are considered sex offenses. Forensic mental health professionals are playing an increasing role in the assessment, treatment, and prerelease evaluation of sex offenders.

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