What it is:
POCD is a subtype of obsessive‑compulsive disorder, a condition where intrusive thoughts about being sexually attracted to children plague the sufferer and cause intense anxiety and depression, leading to repetitive mental or physical actions (compulsions) to relieve anxiety. In POCD, obsessions focus on FEARS of being a pedophile and causing harm to society as a bad person. It causes feelings of intense guilt, and shame. It is important to note that there is no actual intent to harm a child, and the thoughts are unwanted.
Common intrusive thoughts might include:
- “What if I’m actually attracted to children?”
- “What if my own abuse as a child has turned me into a monster?
- “What if I lose control of my brain and I hurt a child?”
- “What if I have hurt a child in the past and just don’t remember?”
My clients with POCD describe living with the condition as being trapped in a constant nightmare of doubt and fear. Sufferers often describe it as:
- Relentless mental checking, and rumination: analyzing every thought or body sensation to “make sure” they aren’t aroused or dangerous.
- Avoidance of being exposed to children such as playgrounds, family gatherings, or even TV shows with kids to prevent intrusive thoughts.
- Intense guilt and shame: believing that simply having the thought makes them a bad person.
- Hyper-vigilance: constantly monitoring one’s own body or emotions for signs of attraction, even when none exist.
These cycles can lead to exhaustion, isolation, and depression.
What it is NOT:
POCD is not Pedophilic Disorder. In Pedophilic Disorder the individual does not fear harming children, they fantasize about children and this is a pleasant and desired experience. In POCD the thoughts are intrusive and unpleasant, torturous even. In Pedophilic Disorder, thought about children are deliberate and do not cause anxiety. In POCD they are not deliberate and cause massive anxiety.
Treatment for POCD
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps the sufferer recognize intrusive thoughts as symptoms of OCD, not reflections of their true self.
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): ERP gradually exposes individuals to triggering thoughts or situations (in safe, controlled ways) while preventing compulsive behaviors — retraining the brain to stop reacting with panic.
- Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are sometimes prescribed to reduce anxiety and obsessive patterns. These include Prozac, Lexapro, and Zoloft, and are also used to treat other kinds of OCD.
- Support Groups and Education: Hearing others’ experiences can be incredibly validating and help reduce shame.
The Stigma Around POCD
Because the topic involves children, people with POCD often suffer in silence. They may fear being misunderstood or labeled, which prevents them from seeking help. Awareness and education are essential. Mental health professionals must recognize POCD as a legitimate and treatable form of OCD — not an indicator of criminal intent.
Living With Hope
POCD, like other forms of OCD is treatable. Recovery from POCD is absolutely possible. Many people who seek proper treatment go on to lead full, healthy lives. Learning to accept intrusive thoughts as meaningless “brain noise” rather than moral failings is a key step toward healing.
If you or someone you love is struggling with intrusive thoughts about harming children, you are not alone — and you are not your thoughts. Please reach out to me with any questions, I would be happy to help.
Additional Educational Resources: