Treatment for youth paraphilic disorders: opportunities to reduce harm

Abstract

Objective: To outline current understanding and recommended treatments for paraphilic or sexual deviant disorders in adolescents and youth. Method: An overview of the diagnosis, development and scope of paraphilic disorders. Evidence and an algorithm for pharmacological treatments in youth are outlined. Results: Paraphilic disorders are relatively common in adolescents and youth, with fantasies and urges preceding the onset of deviant behaviour by a handful of years. Research in youth is sparse, but the available evidence supports that paraphilic disorders respond favourably to psychological and pharmacological treatments. Conclusions: The detection of paraphilic disorders in adolescents and youth presents a window of opportunity, where treatment may be provided before deviant behaviour occurs, potentially reducing the future incidence of sexual abuse.