Ephebophilia

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Ephebophilia is the primary sexual interest in mid-to-late adolescents, generally ages 15 to 19. The term is one of several used to describe age-related sexual preferences, which also include pedophilia (prepubescent children) and hebephilia (early pubescent children). Ephebophilia is distinct from these other terms in that it specifically refers to the attraction to individuals who are in the later stages of adolescence.

Definition and Terminology

The term "ephebophilia" is derived from the Greek words "ephebos," meaning "youth" or "adolescent," and "philia," meaning "love" or "friendship." It was first coined by Dutch psychologist Frits Bernard in the 1950s. Unlike pedophilia, which is classified as a mental disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), ephebophilia is not considered a mental disorder by most psychological and psychiatric organizations.

Distinction from Other Terms

Ephebophilia is often confused with other terms that describe sexual attraction to minors. It is important to distinguish between these terms to understand the specific nature of the attraction:

• Pedophilia: Sexual attraction to prepubescent children, typically under the age of 13.
• Hebephilia: Sexual attraction to early pubescent children, generally ages 11 to 14.
• Teleiophilia: Sexual attraction to adults.

Legal and Social Implications

The legal and social implications of ephebophilia vary widely across different cultures and legal systems. In many jurisdictions, the age of consent is set within the range of 15 to 19, meaning that sexual relationships with individuals in this age group may be legally permissible. However, societal attitudes towards such relationships can be complex and often negative, particularly when there is a significant age difference between the partners.

Related Concepts

• Age of consent
• Sexual orientation
• Paraphilia
• Child sexual abuse
• Adolescent psychology

See Also

• Pedophilia
• Hebephilia
• Teleiophilia
• Paraphilia
• Age of consent