MAP Facts
Quick answers and reputable info about MAPs and related topics
Each bullet point below links to a source that backs up the claim. Click on any "infographic" link to download a sharable image. Our full collection of infographics can be found here.
General
MAPs
"MAP" is an umbrella term that was popularized by mental health experts
The average age at which a MAP discovers their attractions is 14 years old
MAPs can have long-term romantic and sexual relationships with adults
36% of MAPs have never told any non-MAP in their personal life about their attractions
Community
Peer Support
Child Sexual Abuse
Offenders
Less than half of all child sexual abusers are MAPs (infographic)
Experts warn that conflating MAPs with abusers could increase rates of sexual abuse
Predator hunters cause suicides and make prosecuting abusers harder
False reports of CSAM make it harder for real abusive content to be identified (infographic)
Risk
Professional Support
Access
Treatment
Therapy for MAPs should be centered around self-acceptance (infographic)
Conversion therapy for MAPs is harmful and ineffective (infographic)
Treatment programs that imply MAPs need help to not offend can be counterproductive
35% of primary care providers experience at least 1 disclosure of minor attractions
Some MAPs seek professional support for reasons unrelated to their attractions