4. Power and aggression

Surprisingly, research does not support common perceptions of pedophiles.

Studies of personality characteristics of pedophiles and ephebophiles have failed to find any evidence of elevated levels of aggression or any other particular personality profile.¹¹
According to research, some men preferentially attracted to boys refrain from sexual activity, and many interact with them in non-sexual ways, sometimes developing close relationships with them.¹²
Studies have found that even those who do engage in sexual activity with boys often do so with the boy’s apparent willingness or initiative. According to some researchers, the interaction may resemble a "love affair" in that the man desires a "consenting" sexual relationship, has affectionate feelings for the boy, and will stop if the boy resists.¹³
Both non-criminological and criminological studies of pedophiles and ephebophiles who have engaged in sexual activity with children have found that the most frequent activities are cuddling, caressing, fondling, and masturbation. Violence, force, and aggression are rare.¹⁴

For more information, see the sections on this site about