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Ud over Skyggerne: En undersøgelse af diskurserne om pædofili i det danske samfund

Oversat titel

Beyond the Shadows: Exploring discourses on pedophilia in danish society

Semester

4. semester

Udgivelsesår

2024

Afleveret

Antal sider

87

Abstract

Purpose This thesis investigates the existing discourses on pedophilia within Danish society, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of how these discourses influence both public and profes-sional perceptions, as well as the availability of support and assistance for individuals with pedophilia. By uncovering these discourses, the study seeks to provide a current snapshot that can inform future discussions and initiatives. Methodology To explore this, a combination of methods was employed: discourse analysis, semi-structured interviews, and a qualitative questionnaire. The discourse analysis deconstructs public attitudes and identifies underlying assumptions and power structures. The primary textual basis for this analysis includes responses from the qualitative questionnaire and interview quotes from professionals. This is supplemented by external literature, including policies, descriptions of existing interventions, news articles, and TV documentaries. Results and conclusions The results indicate that the dominant discourses on pedophilia in Denmark are deeply rooted in cultural, political, and legal contexts, characterized by a strong focus on punish-ment that consistently associates pedophilia with child abuse. This disciplinary narrative is reinforced by media representations and legislative actions that emphasize criminalization and harsher penalties. However, the study also identifies opportunities to challenge and change the discourse by rethinking communication about support services and incorporat-ing personal narratives to foster a more empathetic and nuanced understanding of pedo-philia. It is concluded that while the existing discourses significantly stigmatize individuals with pedophilia, there are emerging counter-discourses that offer a more complex and humane perspective, which could lead to more effective societal and policy approaches.