Under DSM-5, which statement CORRECTLY distinguishes a paraphilia from a paraphilic disorder?
- A A paraphilic disorder is a paraphilia that causes significant distress or functional impairment to the individual, or involves non-consenting persons ✓
- B A paraphilia always requires treatment regardless of distress
- C Paraphilias are classified under neurodevelopmental disorders
- D A paraphilia and paraphilic disorder are synonymous in DSM-5
Correct answer: A. A paraphilic disorder is a paraphilia that causes significant distress or functional impairment to the individual, or involves non-consenting persons
Explanation
DSM-5 distinguishes paraphilia (an atypical sexual interest) from paraphilic disorder (the same interest that causes marked distress, functional impairment, or involves non-consenting parties). A person can have a paraphilia without a paraphilic disorder if there is no distress and behavior involves consenting adults. This distinction avoids pathologizing diverse but non-harmful sexual interests. Paraphilias are classified under the chapter on paraphilic disorders in DSM-5.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
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