Overview
Somnophilia is a rare psychiatric disorder that involves an individual deriving sexual arousals and gratification from watching an unsuspecting sleeping person. This disorder has been categorized as a paraphilia, which are defined as recurrent and intense sexual fantasies, urges, or behavior that generally involve non-human objects, children, or other non-consenting adults. It is important to note that in order for the individual to be diagnosed with this disorder, the behavior must be causing them distress or impairment. Somnophilia is thought to be especially distressing for the victim, as they rarely, if ever, consent to the sexual activity. Therefore, it is important to seek professional help and support if an individual is struggling with this disorder.