Voyeurism and Exhibitionism

Abstract Voyeurism and exhibitionism reside at the intersection of psychiatry and law. Both behaviors can, but do not always, constitute sexual disorders and/or criminal offenses. Indeed, voyeurism may be the most common, potentially law‐breaking, sexual behavior. Other data suggest exhibitionism is the most widespread sexual offense. Voyeurism centers on nonconsensual observation of the sexual activity of others, while exhibitionism pivots on the illicit exposure of genitalia to an unwilling audience. Both voyeurism and exhibition are thus considered hands‐off sexual behaviors, as neither requires physical contact with a victim, unlike rape, which requires penetration.