Abstract
The definition of hypersexuality and its underlying structure are controversial and currently lack consistency and clarity. Recent research suggests that the latent structure for the construct of overall hypersexuality is distributed as a dimensional rather than as a non-arbitrary category or taxon (Graham, Harris, Walters, & Knight, 2015). In contrast to hypersexuality, which captures extreme levels of normophilic sexual behavior, the paraphilias are defined by the presence of “abnormal” sexual behavior and fantasies. For assessment, definition, and intervention issues, it is essential to determine the latent structure of the paraphilias. Using data collected from the administration of the Multidimensional Inventory of Development, Sex, and Aggression (MIDSA, 2011) to large samples of college-aged males (n = 541) and females (n = 367), the present study examined the latent structure of specific paraphilias and found evidence to support dimensionality in males and categorical structure in females. The implications of these results for theory and assessment are discussed.