I suspect that the origin of paedophilia is much more complex than we imagine. Sexuality doesn't seem to be quite so readily determined simply by genetics. My guess is that it is the result of some complex interaction at a sensitive developmental stage between genetics and environment. (Oh dear - this makes sound like some latter day Freudian! Or worse, like an epigeneticist follower of Sriram!)
But there is evidence of the existence of developmental stages at which appropriate stimulus determines later behaviour - the best known being language. If an infant is not exposed to language by the age of about 18 months it will never acquire language. It may be that aspects of sexuality are hard-wired and their correct expression will be a combination of genetic, hormonal and experiential factors - possibly both pre- and post-parturition.
This is not to excuse or condone paedophilia. It is abhorrent and plainly pathological. One can only hope that its incidence is very low. However, the lurid reporting of rare incidents means that all men are now presumed to be dangerous to children unless proven otherwise.
These issues alone means that paedophilia will remain a criminal activity.
Absolutely.
There is also confusion about the term
paedophile - it is someone with an interest in pre-pubertal children. Adults with an interest in post-pubertal children are hebephiles.
