Abstract
In this article, I address the question of whether pedophilia in men can be construed as a male sexual orientation, and the
implications for thinking of it in this way for scientific research, clinical practice, and public policy. I begin by defining
pedophilia and sexual orientation, and then compare pedophilia (as a potential sexual orientation with regard to age) to sexual
orientations with regard to gender (heterosexuality, bisexuality, and homosexuality), on the bases of age of onset, correlations
with sexual and romantic behavior, and stability over time. I conclude with comments about the potential social and legal
implications of conceptualizing pedophilia as a type of sexual orientation in males.
implications for thinking of it in this way for scientific research, clinical practice, and public policy. I begin by defining
pedophilia and sexual orientation, and then compare pedophilia (as a potential sexual orientation with regard to age) to sexual
orientations with regard to gender (heterosexuality, bisexuality, and homosexuality), on the bases of age of onset, correlations
with sexual and romantic behavior, and stability over time. I conclude with comments about the potential social and legal
implications of conceptualizing pedophilia as a type of sexual orientation in males.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-6
- DOI 10.1007/s10508-011-9882-6
- Authors
- Michael C. Seto, Integrated Forensic Program, Royal Ottawa Health Care Group, 1804 Highway 2 East, Brockville, ON K6V 5W7, Canada
- Journal Archives of Sexual Behavior
- Online ISSN 1573-2800
- Print ISSN 0004-0002