Most people will say that pedophilia (the attraction to children) is a mental illness. Then using this logic couldn't you say that homosexuality is a mental illness too (the attraction to the same sex)?
Or you could go the opposite way with both and say they are both natural feelings designed by nature.
2007-03-12 17:55:20 · 2 answers · asked by greenrock1122 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
Are you talking theoretically or practically?
Per the DSM-IV, pedophilia is classified as a mental illness; homosexuality is not.
And I think most people would disagree with the idea that pedophilia is "natural" as the idea of engaging in a sexual act with a child is completely abhorrent to the vast majority of the population.
Added: I agree with the point that the first person here made about the presence of a "victim" when comparing pedophilia and homosexuality. Just wanted to note that a diagnosis of Pedophilia does not require that there has been any actual sexual contact, just that the person is sexually attracted to pre-pubescent children.
2007-03-13 20:20:50 · answer #1 · answered by ambr123 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, these are two different things. Homosexuals (whether you think it is a choice, an aberration or a genetic inclination) have sex with other consenting adults. No one else has to like it. Pedophiles prey on children and "trick" or force them into having sex. Two completely different things.
2007-03-12 20:43:02 · answer #2 · answered by Patti C 7 · 5⤊ 0⤋