Disturbances in objects of desire: Cross-cultural issues

Paraphilias are defined as sexual attractions to objects or individuals not normally found attractive. This sexual 'deviance' has been shown to be normal, in such cases as masturbation or oral sex, even where legally proscribed, or it can be subcultural or individual. In the latter case it is likely to be affected by both biological and sociocultural factors. It is argued that, in some types of individual deviance, cultural factors are more likely to play an important role. Some cultures are seen as sex-positive and others as sex-negative but, within each cultural setting, attitudes towards sex and the function of sexual activity are a key to understanding the development of sexual deviance. In cultures where sex is seen as an attraction-led phenomenon rather than a purely procreative one, individuals are more likely to be attracted to 'objects'. This is likely to be influenced by the socio-centrism or the egocentrism of the society. The implications of these differences are discussed in relation to assessment and management.