Paraphilia

The term paraphilia is approximately 100 years old, but its meaning and definition vary.¹ The word itself can be broken down into two parts; the first part of the word ‘para-’ means beyond, abnormal, or irregular and the second part ‘-philia’ means love. The term itself acts as a clinical and scientific umbrella term that…

Voyeurism

Voyeurism, or voyeuristic disorder, is a paraphilia in which a person derives sexual pleasure from the act or fantasy of watching unsuspecting people while they are undressing, bathing, participating in sexual acts, or engaging in other private activities. Voyeurs are also commonly known as “Peeping Toms” or simply, “peepers.” Males are more likely to engage in voyeuristic behaviors…

Megan’s Law

In 1994, 7-year-old Megan Kanka was raped and murdered by her 33-year-old neighbor Jesse Timmendequas in Mercer County, New Jersey. The incident attracted national attention and resulted in the introduction of “Megan’s Law”, which was imposed federally in 1996 by the United States Department of Justice. The requirements of Megan’s Law varies from state to…