Diagnosing paraphilias can be challenging due to the evolving definitions and criteria across diagnostic manuals, leading to discrepancies in classification and diagnosis. Additionally, distinguishing between paraphilic interests and paraphilic disorders—as well as addressing the potential misuse of diagnostic criteria—further complicates the process.

During this training, Dr. Michael Miner, Emeritus Professor of Family Medicine and Community Health at the University of Minnesota, addresses the criteria and processes of diagnosing paraphilias and paraphilic disorders as described in the DSM-5-TR.  He covers historical and current definitions, clarifies the differences between paraphilias and disorders, focuses on pedophilia considerations, and guides attendees through diagnosing various paraphilias, such as sexual sadism and voyeurism, with insights on applying DSM-5-TR criteria effectively.

Importantly, this training explores the misuses of diagnosis, both in terms of misapplied criteria and the use/misuse of the Other Specified and Other Unspecified Paraphilic Disorder categories.  Dr. Miner includes a special focus on the specifiers related to coercion and hebephilia.  He also explores the use of self-reporting, phallometry, and viewing time measures in making paraphilic disorder diagnoses. This includes a review of the strengths and weaknesses of each of these methods.

Interactive Follow-Up Meeting

Attendees are invited to join an open discussion led by the presenter, which begins 15 minutes following the end of the training. This is an opportunity for attendees to turn on their camera and microphone and further engage with the presenter. Your experiences will undoubtedly contribute to a meaningful exchange of ideas and information. The presenter also allocates time to address questions or insights that arise from the live training.