The Diagnostic
Statistical Manuel of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) defines Pedophilia
as a recurrent sexual interest in prepubescent children reflected in persistent thoughts,
fantasies, urges, sexual arousal, and behavior.
Pedophilia is also a Paraphilia that involves abnormal sexual interest in children. The DSM-IV-TR defines a Paraphilia as a disorder that is characterized by recurrent intense sexual urges and sexually
arousing fantasies generally involving: nonhuman objects; the suffering or
humiliation of oneself or one's partner (not merely simulated); or animals,
children, or other nonconsenting persons.
The defining characteristic of Pedophilia is sexual interest or acts
with prepubescent children. In the mental health field a
prepubescent child is generally defined as 13 years of age and younger.
Pedophiles can be attracted to both sexes of children, either
exclusively or in addition to sexual attraction to adults.
An important distinction worth mentioning is the difference between the terms "Pedophile" and "Child
Molester." A Child Molester is a person who has been found
guilty of or has admitted to committing a sexual act against a child or children.
A Pedophile is a person who has persistent sexual urges or
attraction to a child or children. It is possible to be a Child Molester
without being a Pedophile, and vice versa (O'Donahue, Regev & Hagstrom, 2000; Seto, 2004).
It is also important to note, the Mental Health Profession
defines Pedophilia to be a mental disorder, but the law in most states
defines carrying out a pedophilic act as a criminal act.