Pedophile =/= Child Molester: Ask Media to Stop Misusing "Pedophile"


Pedophile =/= Child Molester: Ask Media to Stop Misusing "Pedophile"
The Issue
Misusing terminology, including terminology that refers to child sexual abuse, is detrimental. It perpetuates misinformation and encourages prejudice. Media is concerned about selling papers, yes, but should it be allowed to do so when the risk is to human safety?
By using "child molester" to describe someone who has sexually assaulted a child, media appropriately places responsibility on the person who has committed the offence. By using "pedophile" solely to describe someone who is sexually attracted to children, media will encourage education about and reduce stigma for this minority group.

The Issue
Misusing terminology, including terminology that refers to child sexual abuse, is detrimental. It perpetuates misinformation and encourages prejudice. Media is concerned about selling papers, yes, but should it be allowed to do so when the risk is to human safety?
By using "child molester" to describe someone who has sexually assaulted a child, media appropriately places responsibility on the person who has committed the offence. By using "pedophile" solely to describe someone who is sexually attracted to children, media will encourage education about and reduce stigma for this minority group.

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Petition created on May 23, 2019