Exhibitionism

Exhibitionism is a mental disorder characterized by a compulsion to display one's genitals to an unsuspecting stranger. The diagnostic criteria for exhibitionism as a psychiatric disorder is the same for men and women.

Definition

Exhibitionism is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) as a paraphilia involving exposing one's genitals to a stranger.

Symptoms

The main symptom of exhibitionism is the urge to expose oneself in public or to an unsuspecting person. This is often accompanied by feelings of excitement and satisfaction, and fantasies that the observer will become sexually aroused.

Causes

The exact cause of exhibitionism is not known. It is thought to be related to sexual and emotional development during childhood. Some theories suggest that it may be linked to childhood abuse or neglect, or to early sexual experiences.

Treatment

Treatment for exhibitionism typically involves psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help an individual to understand and change thought patterns that lead to problematic behavior. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be used to help reduce sexual urges.

See also

• Paraphilia
• Voyeurism
• Frotteurism
• Sexual fetishism

References

Exhibitionism Resources
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