Citation

Levenson JS, Grady MD. Sex. Abuse 2018; ePub(ePub): 1079063218797713.

Affiliation

The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1079063218797713

PMID

30183557

Abstract

The primary aim of this exploratory research was to gain information from minor-attracted persons (MAPs) about their (a) formal and informal experiences with help-seeking for minor attraction, (b) perceived barriers to seeking help for concerns about minor attraction, and (c) treatment priorities as identified by consumers of these services. A nonrandom, purposive sample of MAPs ( n = 293, 154 completed all questions) was recruited via an online survey.

RESULTS show that 75% of participants did seek formal help from a professional; however, just less than half of them found the experience to be helpful. Characteristics of helpful therapeutic encounters included nonjudgmental attitudes, knowledge about minor attraction, and viewing clients in a person-centered and holistic way. Barriers to help seeking included uncertainty about confidentiality, fear of negative reaction or judgment, difficulties finding a therapist knowledgeable about MAPs, and financial constraints. Understanding or reducing attraction to minors were common treatment goals, but participants also prioritized addressing general mental health and well-being related to depression, anxiety, loneliness, and low self-esteem. Implications for effective and ethical counseling and preventive interventions for MAPs are discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

help seeking; minor-attracted person; pedophilia; prevention; therapy