Life history of men with pedophilic disorder serving time in prison

Abstract

This study s objective was to understand the life story and romantic relationships of men serving time for the rape of children and/or adolescents and the circumstances under which the crimes were committed. This is a qualitative study with a multiple-case design. Three men diagnosed with pedophilic disorder, convicted of sexual violence against children and/or adolescents participated. The following instruments were used: A sociodemographic form and semi-structured interviews. The results revealed that the victimizers consider that sexual interactions with children/adolescents are appropriate, provided not very young children or violence is involved. They acknowledged their disorder only in terms of immaturity. In addition to criminal punishment, psychological counseling provided to pedophiles is vital to prevent relapses.