Which of the following is the cross-species sexual activity between humans and non-human animals?

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

Bestiality, also known as zoophilia, is the paraphilia characterized by sexual urges, fantasies, or activities involving non-human animals.
This term specifically describes sexual contact that crosses the species barrier between humans and animals.
According to psychiatric classifications, for it to be considered a disorder (Zoophilic Disorder), the urges must cause significant personal distress or social/occupational impairment, or be acted upon with a non-consenting animal.

Option B: Voyeurism involves observing unsuspecting humans, not engaging in sexual activity with animals. The focus is on watching, not physical contact.
Option C: Paedophilia is a paraphilia directed towards prepubescent children, not animals. The object of sexual interest is a human child.
Option D: Frottage involves non-consensual touching or rubbing against another person for sexual pleasure, usually in crowded places. It does not involve animals.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Paraphilic Disorders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In psychiatric nursing, it is essential to approach patients with paraphilic disorders with a non-judgmental and professional attitude to facilitate honest disclosure and effective treatment.
Assessment should focus on the level of distress, impairment in functioning, and any risk of harm to self or others (including animals).
Treatment often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to manage urges, develop empathy, and address cognitive distortions, and may sometimes include medication to reduce sexual drive.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of psychiatric terminology.
First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'cross-species sexual activity between humans and non-human animals'.
Next, analyze the definitions of each option.
Recall or deduce the meaning of 'Bestiality'. The root 'bestia' is Latin for 'beast' or 'animal', which is a strong clue.
Systematically eliminate the other options by defining them: Voyeurism (watching), Paedophilia (children), and Frottage (rubbing against people).
Select the option that directly matches the definition provided in the question stem.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Kaplan Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry-2022 (pp 1-3768 of 3768) pp. 1708-1710, 1697-1699

Practise the full DSSSB 12 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.