Reference no: EM133230096

Pedophiles and child molesters share some characteristics. Most are male, and they can be heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual. Some prefer adult sex partners but choose children because they are available and vulnerable. The sexual abuse perpetrated may be a 1-time incident and may consist only of fondling. Penetration is unlikely with young children. Perpetrators' ages range from teens to midlife. Most victims are girls, and the perpetrator usually is a relative, friend, or neighbor. The home of the victim is often the setting for the incident. When boys are victims, sexual abuse may take place outside the home, and perpetrators may be strangers. Perpetrators of sexual abuse of children often claim that they themselves were victims of childhood sexual abuse. Psychological profiles are helpful but are compromised partly because many perpetrators are prisoners and control groups are lacking for this research.

Discuss the differences between a pedophile and a child molester in general terms as well as specifics related to the victim and types of crimes committed.

1. Define the terms and discuss the overlap between the two terms.

2. Are these mental disorders by DSM-5 criteria? Why or not.

3. Why do they "act" on children?

4. What are the most child molestation convictions? Why?