Public attitudes toward teenagers with paedophilia: a qualitative examination

Although the public portrays individuals with paedophilia as adult men, research indicates that the onset of paedophilia develops earlier (around the teenage years). The purpose of this qualitative study was to analyse public attitudes toward teenagers with paedophilia and gauge the support for preventative programs and psychological treatment. We conducted a content analysis of online posts describing community attitudes toward teenagers with paedophilia and identified four categories: rejection, distortions, pity, and responsiveness (comprised of three subcategories - acknowledgement, therapy and professional help, and public awareness). We identified that the public not only rejects adults but also youth with paedophilia. However, the responsiveness category showed that part of the public believes that (1) the attraction is unwanted for many teenagers with paedophilia, (2) these youth should have the opportunity to receive psychological treatment to control their urges, and (3) preventative programs should be established. Clinical and social implications are examined.PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENTThis study offers insight into public reactions toward teenagers with paedophilia which can influence public policy and availability of services (i.e. psychological treatment). It also discusses clinical factors and considerations for practices serving this population.