Long, Dark Shadow - Minor-Attracted People and Their Pursuit of Dignity

"A Long Dark Shadow tackles an extraordinarily difficult topic—one that is misunderstood by the public, debated by scientific researchers, and contentious in clinical circles. Walker skillfully navigates the complex and delicate web of social, moral, and psychological issues in a narrative woven together with facts, personal accounts, compassion, and evidence-based recommendations. This book will help prevent harm and enhance well-being."—Jill Levenson, Professor of Social Work, Barry University

"A truly unique, important, and compelling contribution to our understanding of an extremely misunderstood and highly stigmatized group. Presented with care, empathy, and compassion."—Leigh Harkins, Associate Professor in Forensic Psychology, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

List of contents

Acknowledgments
Preface

Introduction: Who Are Minor-Attracted People?
1. "Am I a Monster?": Forming an Identity as Minor-Attracted
2. "Leading a Double Life": Staying Closeted and Coming Out as a MAP
3. "Enduring a Ra instorm": MAPs' Strategies for Coping with Their Attractions
4. "It’s a Very Strong Boundary for Me": Resilience to Sexual Offending among MAPs 
5. "Their Intention Wasn’t to Help Me": Mental Health Problems and Ca re-Seeking Experiences
6. "You Are Not a Monster": Toward a Shift in Attitudes Concerning MAPs

Appendix A. Participant Characteristics
Appendix B. Research Methods for a Difficult Subject
Notes
Bibliography
Index

About the author

Allyn Walker (they / them) is Assistant Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Old Dominion University.

Product details

• Authors: Allyn Walker
• Publisher: University Of California Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Released: 30.06.2021
• EAN: 9780520306349
• ISBN: 978-0-520-30634-9
• No. of pages: 236
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Education > Social education, social work; Social sciences, law, business > Law > Criminal law, criminal procedural law, criminology; SOCIAL SCIENCE / Sexual Abuse & Harassment, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Criminology, PSYCHOLOGY / Human Sexuality, Sexual abuse & harassment, Sexual abuse and harassment, Crime and criminology, Crime & criminology, Psychology: sexual behaviour, Sexual Behaviour