
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions โ written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Frotteurism
Introduction
Synonyms and keywords: Frotteurism
Overview
Overview
Frotteuristic disorder is a sexual dysfunction disorder characterized by sexual arousal from rubbing against or touching a non-consenting person.[1]
Differential Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis
- Antisocial personality disorder
- Conduct disorder
- Substance use disorders[1]
Epidemiology and Demographics
Epidemiology and Demographics
Prevalence
The prevalence of frotteuristic disorder is up to 30% adult males in the general population.[1]
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Poor prognostic factors include:
- Recurrent touching or rubbing against a nonconsenting individual
- Subjective distress (e.g., guilt, shame, intense sexual frustration, loneliness)
- Psychiatric morbidity
- Hypersexuality and sexual impulsivity
- Psychosocial impairment[1]
Diagnostic Criteria
Diagnostic Criteria
DSM-V Diagnostic Criteria for Frotteuristic Disorder[1]
- A. Over a period of at least 6 months, recurrent and intense sexual arousal from touching or rubbing against a non consenting person, as manifested by fantasies, urges, or behaviors.
AND
- B. The individual has acted on these sexual urges with a non consenting person, or the sexual urges or fantasies cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
Specify if:
- In a controlled environment: This specifier is primarily applicable to individuals living in institutional or other settings where opportunities to touch or rub against a non consenting person are restricted.
- In full remission: The individual has not acted on the urges with a nonconsenting per son, and there has been no distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning, for at least 5 years while in an uncontrolled environment.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Jesus Rosario Hernandez, M.D. [2]
