l be considered. Unfortunately there is much research still required before a real answer can be found, however based on the current evidence, there appears to be no simple answer, rather a complex array of factors from all those considered (which is not necessarily the same for every paedophile) which lays the foundations for sexual abuse of children in the church of factors.
             In order to determine the how and why of paedophilia in the church, the definition of paedophilia must first be determined. According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV (DSM IV) utilised by psychiatrists and psychologists to diagnose patients, paedophilia is classified as a mental illness. It falls under the general category of paraphilia's, "abnormal or unnatural attraction." Paedophilia is defined as the act or fantasy of engaging in sexual activity with prepubertal children as the preferred or exclusive method of achieving sexual excitement.
             Interestingly men who abuse children over 12 are not considered paedophiles. Rather they fall with the boundaries of ephebophelia, a term which has not yet been added to the DSM. In light of recent cases, the church having done its homework, has been quick to point this out. Recent comments by Archbishop/Governor General Hollingworth went so far as to say that these children sometimes instigated and were a party to the abuse.
             In Australia, sex with a child less than 16 years old constitutes statutory rape hence a 15 year old is by no means an adult capable of informed consent despite the protests of the church, and abuse of such a child would most certainly have considerable deleterious effects. Thus ephebophelia will be considered as part of paedophilia.
             It must be qualified that not all priests are paedophiles or protectors of paedophiles. Many are good religious men dedicating their lives to God and those in need, and paedophilia is most certainly not limited to the church or Australia- it is ...