Pedophilia OCD

What is Pedophilia OCD (POCD)?

Pedophilia-themed OCD, also known as POCD, is a subtype of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in which an individual experiences intrusive and distressing thoughts related to sexual attraction to children. It is important to note that these individuals do not actually have pedophilic tendencies and are not a threat to children. However, the intrusive thoughts and anxiety that they experience can be challenging to manage and may benefit from professional help.

Symptoms of POCD

The thoughts and fears experienced by individuals with Pedophilia-themed OCD can be distressing and overwhelming. They may include thoughts such as "What if I am attracted to children?" or "What if I act on an impulsive, intrusive urge?". These thoughts can lead to intense feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. As a result, individuals may feel the need to constantly check their behavior, seek reassurance from others, or engage in compulsive behaviors such as avoiding children or constantly monitoring their thoughts.

The stigma and shame that often surrounds this manifestation of OCD sadly leads to many who experience it to avoid seeking treatment for fear of what they may find out or be accused of. It is important to understand that individuals with Pedophilia-themed OCD do not pose a threat to children. In fact, being a threat to children is often these individuals’ greatest fear.

Treatment for POCD

If you are reading this article and identify with the content, I urge you to no longer delay treatment. While it is important to seek a provider who is aware of POCD and will not pathologize intrusive thoughts related to children, POCD is very treatable. Through learning how to tolerate uncertainty and identify and commit to one’s best rational guess and values, one can reduce the impact of their intrusive thoughts and free themselves from their OCD. At our practice, we provide gold standard OCD treatment to help you get the results you are looking for. For more information on how treatment for OCD works, click here. If you are interested in receiving treatment for POCD, contact us here.