Pedophilia

This code represents a paraphilic disorder characterized by recurrent, intense sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving sexual activity with a prepubescent child or children. The individual must be at least 16 years old and at least 5 years older than the child(ren) to meet diagnostic criteria.

This code is appropriate when a patient meets the diagnostic criteria for pedophilia as documented by a mental health professional. Documentation should clearly indicate the presence of persistent sexual urges or fantasies directed toward prepubescent children, causing clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

• Ensure documentation specifies the age difference between the individual and the child(ren) involved.
• Do not confuse this with other paraphilias or non-specific sexual disorders.
• This diagnosis requires a thorough psychiatric evaluation and should not be assigned based solely on allegations or suspicions.