Pedophilia is a sexual psychological disorder classified as a paraphilia and constitutes a sexual crime. It primarily refers to sexual desire that is partially or entirely directed toward prepubescent or adolescent children.Typically, pedophiles are male, with female cases being rare. They often seek sexual gratification from children of the same or opposite sex who are not yet sexually mature. Those who target children of the opposite sex are termed heterosexual pedophiles, while those who target children of the same sex are termed homosexual pedophiles (male homosexual pedophilia and female homosexual pedophilia, respectively). Pedophilia involving relatives is termed incestuous pedophilia.Pedophilia typically manifests after age thirty. Individuals lack sexual interest in adults, are predominantly unmarried, and frequently suffer from erectile dysfunction. How is pedophilia diagnosed?
Diagnostic Criteria
①CCMD-3
Classified under Other or Unspecified Paraphilias.
② ICD-10
· Must meet general criteria for Paraphilia-Unspecified (F65);
· Persistent or prominent preference for sexual activity with prepubescent children;
· The patient must be at least 16 years old and at least 5 years older than the child(ren) of interest;
③DSM-IV
· Repeatedly aroused by sexual fantasies, urges, or acts involving prepubescent children (generally under 13 years old) for at least 6 months.
· These fantasies, urges, or behaviors cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning;