Frotteurism refers to the act of engaging in touching or rubbing up against a nonconsenting individual for the purpose of sexual gratification. Frotteurism has been referred to in common terms as groping. This act of touching a nonconsenting individual typically occurs in crowded public places, especially in public transportation in cities (e.g., buses, trains). Frotteuristic acts are nonconsensual in nature and, therefore, are considered criminal behavior.

Overview and Diagnostic Criteria

The word frotteurism is derived from the French term frotter, meaning rubbing or friction. The term was first referred to as a psychological disorder by French psychiatrist Valentin Magnan in 1890. Frotteurism was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition, Revised (DSM-III-R) in 1987. The diagnosis was used to describe individuals who ...

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