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Pediatrics132 papers

Exhibitionism

Last edited: 4/10/2026

Overview

Exhibitionism is a paraphilic disorder characterized by recurrent, intense sexual arousal from the exposure of one's genitals to an unsuspecting stranger 1. This behavior is often accompanied by fantasies, urges, or behaviors related to this exposure 1.

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis is based on recurrent, intense sexual arousal from the exposure of one's genitals to an unsuspecting stranger, as manifested by fantasies, urges, or behaviors 1.
  • The individual must have acted on these urges and experienced significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning 1.
  • The exhibitionistic behavior must not be better explained by another paraphilic disorder 1.
  • Management

  • Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is a primary treatment approach for exhibitionism 1.
  • Therapy aims to address underlying psychological issues, develop coping mechanisms, and reduce impulsive behaviors 1.
  • Pharmacological interventions may be considered in some cases, particularly to manage comorbid conditions or reduce sexual drive, though specific drug classes or doses are not detailed in the provided abstracts 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatric considerations may involve education regarding sexual health and the importance of consent, as highlighted in the context of healthcare providers' roles 1. The concept of Gillick competence addresses a child's capacity to consent to treatment 2.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Healthcare providers involved in children's sexual health require adequate training to improve their knowledge and attitudes regarding the topic 1.
  • Continuing education courses should be planned to promote the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare providers concerning children's sexual health 1.
  • When determining a child's capacity to consent to treatment, factors related to Gillick competence must be considered 2.
  • References

    1 Barimani Aboksari Z, Ganji J, Mousavinasab N, Khani S. The Effect of Children's Sexual Health Education Program on Knowledge and Attitude of Primary School Health Care Providers. Journal of child sexual abuse 2021. link 2 Griffith R. What is Gillick competence?. Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics 2016. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      The Effect of Children's Sexual Health Education Program on Knowledge and Attitude of Primary School Health Care Providers.Barimani Aboksari Z, Ganji J, Mousavinasab N, Khani S Journal of child sexual abuse (2021)
    2. [2]
      What is Gillick competence?Griffith R Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics (2016)

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