Holt et al

Pedophilia

A psychological disorder characterized by sexual attraction to prepubescent children.

Subculture

A cultural group within a larger culture that has its own distinct values and norms.

Enculturation

The process by which individuals learn and adopt the values and norms of their culture.

Computer-mediated communications

Forms of communication that occur through the use of electronic devices and the internet.

Marginalization

The social process of becoming or being made marginal or peripheral within a culture.

Child pornography

Material that depicts children engaged in explicit sexual activities.

Deviance

Behavior that deviates from societal norms and expectations.

HIV bugchasing

A subculture where individuals seek sexual experiences with HIV-positive partners.

Normative order

A set of generalized rules and common practices oriented around a common value.

Online forums

Web-based discussion sites where individuals can communicate about shared interests.

Grooming

The process of establishing trust with a child or their guardians for the purpose of sexual abuse.

Boy love / Girl love

Terms used by some individuals to describe affectionate feelings toward children, often rejecting the term 'pedophile'.

Legal definitions

Official interpretations of laws that define terms such as pedophilia and child pornography.

Cognitive distortions

Faulty or irrational thoughts that individuals may use to justify harmful behavior.

Recidivism

The tendency of previously convicted individuals to re-offend.

Community supervision

A system of monitoring individuals' behavior in the community, often as part of parole or probation.

Justification

The reasons or rationalizations provided to support or defend a behavior.