Which of the following is true about pedophilia according to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria?

• A. Pedophilia is defined solely by the presence of sexual attraction to adults.
• B. Pedophilia is considered a normal variation of sexual interest and is not listed in the DSM-5.
• C. Pedophilia can only be diagnosed in individuals under the age of 18.
• D. Pedophilia is classified as a paraphilic disorder when it causes distress or impairment to the individual or involves harm to others.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of pedophilia according to the DSM-5. It is characterized by recurrent, intense sexually arousing fantasies, urges, or behaviors involving sexual activity with a prepubescent child or children (generally age 13 years or younger).
2. Step 2: Recognize that pedophilia is not defined by attraction to adults; rather, it specifically involves attraction to prepubescent children, so the first option is incorrect.
3. Step 3: Note that pedophilia is listed in the DSM-5 as a paraphilic disorder, but it is only diagnosed as such if it causes significant distress or impairment to the individual or if the individual has acted on these urges in a way that harms others. This means it is not considered a normal variation of sexual interest.
4. Step 4: Understand that pedophilia is diagnosed in adults, not individuals under 18, so the third option is incorrect.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct understanding is that pedophilia is classified as a paraphilic disorder when it causes distress or impairment to the individual or involves harm to others, aligning with the DSM-5 criteria.