It's important to note that I cannot offer a diagnosis or specific advice for your situation. If you're experiencing distressing thoughts or concerns, I strongly encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional for proper evaluation and support.
POCD stands for "Pedophilic Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder," which is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) where an individual experiences intrusive and distressing thoughts or obsessions related to pedophilia. People with POCD have intense fears or doubts about the possibility of being or becoming a pedophile, even when they have no desire or intention to harm children. These intrusive thoughts can be distressing and cause significant anxiety, guilt, or shame. It's important to understand that having intrusive thoughts does not make someone a pedophile, and OCD can manifest in various distressing ways.
Pedophilia, on the other hand, is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an adult's sexual attraction to prepubescent children. It is crucial to recognize that pedophilic attraction and acting on such feelings are illegal and morally unacceptable. However, having unwanted thoughts or fears related to pedophilia (POCD) is distinct from being a pedophile.
If you're struggling with these thoughts and fears, please consider seeking help from a mental health professional who can provide a proper evaluation, offer support, and help you manage your concerns. Remember that seeking professional help is a brave and important step towards understanding and coping with any mental health challenges you may be facing. Mental health professionals are trained to provide support, guidance, and evidence-based treatment to help individuals navigate these difficulties.