Beyond Pedophilia: Understanding the Risks Posed by Ephebophiles, Hebephiles and Youth

Much work in sexual abuse prevention focuses on protecting younger children from pedophiles. Often used colloquially to identify anyone who has sexual interest in a minor, the term pedophilia is specific to people attracted to pre-pubescent youth. Knowledge and awareness must be raised around predators focused on older children. Hebephilia is the term used to describe sexual attraction to pubescent children and ephebophilia refers to primary sexual interest in mid-to-late adolescents. These offenders, particularly hebephiles, often can operate in plain sight as attraction to sexually mature teens is more socially acceptable than attraction to small children. However, the impact of this abuse is just as devastating as pedophilia. Further, we must address the risks that youth pose to each other.
This workshop will present the clinical and behavioral definitions of ephebophiles and hebephiles and review modes of operation. We will focus on the intersection of sexual awakening in adolescents and the concomitant vulnerability to this type of exploitation. The role of accurate information around human sexuality as a protective factor will be stressed, and resources will be offered.