Mental Health Technician Certification (AMCA) Practice Test

What is the term for a group of sexual variations that deviate from traditional societal models?

1. Sexual dysfunction

2. Paraphilia

3. Fetishism

4. Attraction disorder

The correct answer is: Paraphilia

The term that refers to a group of sexual variations that deviate from traditional societal models is paraphilia. Paraphilias are characterized by intense sexual interests or behaviors that fall outside the normative sexual practices typically accepted by society. This can include a wide range of interests, which may involve unusual objects, situations, or individuals. Paraphilia is recognized within the field of psychology and helps professionals categorize and understand various sexual motivations and behaviors that can manifest in individuals. It is important to note that not all variations classified as paraphilic result in distress or impairment; however, they are distinct from typical sexual activities that align with societal norms. The other terms mentioned, such as sexual dysfunction, fetishism, and attraction disorder, refer to specific areas related to sexual health or interests but do not encapsulate the broader category of diverse sexual variations encompassed by paraphilia. Sexual dysfunction typically refers to difficulties in the sexual response cycle that impede sexual satisfaction. Fetishism is a specific type of paraphilia focused on sexual attraction to non-living objects or specific body parts, while attraction disorder is not a widely recognized term in psychology, lacking the specificity and prevalence found in established classifications like paraphilia.