psychiatric disorders
Exhibitionistic Disorder
Key Points
Most people with exhibitionist behaviors do not meet the clinical criteria for an exhibitionistic disorder. About 30% of apprehended male sex offenders are exhibitionists; sex offenses often recur. Diagnose exhibitionistic disorder only if the condition has been present for≥6 months and if patients have acted on their sexual urges with a nonconsenting person or their behavior causes them clinically significant distress or impairs functioning. Many people with exhibitionistic behaviors do not seek treatment; treat patients who have committed a sexual offense with psychotherapy and SSRIs first; if additional treatment is needed and if informed consent is obtained, treat with antiandrogen medications. 