To diagnose pedophilia, the patient must be at least how old relative to the victim?

The correct answer involves understanding the criteria established for diagnosing pedophilia, which is classified within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To meet the diagnostic criteria for pedophilia, an individual must be at least 16 years old and must be at least 5 years older than the child or adolescent they are attracted to.

This age distinction is significant because it delineates a clear boundary that helps define the behavior in relation to the victim’s age. The criteria are designed to focus on the power dynamics and the implications of adult attraction to minors.

Other answer choices do not fit the clinical definitions. For instance, being over 18 and at least 10 years older or over 20 and at least 5 years older introduces age requirements that are more stringent than what the DSM-5 specifies. Similarly, while being over 14 and at least 5 years older represents a potential developmental consideration, it does not adhere to the minimum age of 16 specified in the diagnostic criteria. Thus, the original choice aligns with professional standards for this diagnosis.