When does it become Pedophilia?

Hello!

I am a woman in my 40s.

Over the years, I have discovered that I am aroused by stories and thoughts involving prepubescent children. I do not watch child porn or view pictures! (though when I was first exploring this part of my fantasies years ago I saw one or two things.)

I have never had a thought of actually doing this and when I am around children it is not something I think about or obsess over.

Are there varying degrees of pedophilia?

Is it you either are or you are not a pedophile?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

Just Curious,

Kelli

P.S. Just so we are clear. I would never hurt or allow a child to be hurt, like this or any other way.

you have pedophiles that only be aroused by kids
you have pedophiles that get aroused by kids and adults.

if it only happends now then idk maybe hormones that are acting weird maybe ?
but im only 16 so i dont know much about this, even through i study about biochemicals and hormones.

you could be a little aroused by kids.
like nobody is 100% straight or gay.
i think it works for this the same way aswell ( not sure)

Hi!

Kellicious wrote:I have never had a thought of actually doing this and when I am around children it is not something I think about or obsess over.

Which makes your thoughts, lo and surprise, just thoughts.
The brain is weird like that, generating all kinds of strange ideas, simulating what-ifs and such.

You're not a pedophile; not even close.

Kellicious wrote:Is it you either are or you are not a pedophile?

Yup, pretty much.
Given that society has decided that you're a pedophile if you have sex with a child, well then.
That makes it a necessary and sufficient condition.

Hi Kellicious,

I think sexuality is always a question of degree. We should think in terms of spectra rather than rigid polarities. Strictly speaking, paedophilia refers to a sexual and romantic preference for prepubescent children. But labels are for convenience, and you shouldn't feel that you have to pick the label that most closely fits you and then find yourself with a degree of anxiety because the label doesn't necessarily tally perfectly with how you feel. I, for example, prefer to talk of myself as a 'non-exclusive teleiophile', but really I prefer no label at all.

Not sure if that helps you!

Thank you everyone who replied!

@ michaelconfused ... Being 16 is hard enough as it is without adding labels I vaguely remember what it was like

@Alevi ... hehe so I am just a normal woman with strange fantasies?? LOL I can handle that .. I knew I was out there when I discovered a love for BDSM and other similar interests ...

@GinaSmith ... I had to actually look that up! Thank you for teaching me something new! I think it is wonderful that even at 40 I can learn from others

I am not sure I was concerned with being labeled... though if it was discover I am sure people would think what they will no matter my true thoughts, feelings and intentions.