Diagnostic Criteria

According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manuel of Mental Disorders - Fourth Edition - Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR), the following criteria must be met to obtain a diagnosis of Pedophilia:

- Over a period of at least 6 months, recurrent, intense sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving sexual activity with a prepubescent child or children (generally age 13 years or younger).
           
- The person has acted on these sexual urges, or the sexual urges or fantasies cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulty.
           
- The person is at least 16 years old and at least 5 years older than the child or children referred to in the first criterion.

The diagnosis should not include an individual in late adolescence involved in an ongoing relationship with a 12-13 year old.

*If you experience any of these symptoms please consult a Psychology Professional*