A Long, Dark Shadow: Minor-Attracted People and Their Pursuit of Dignity (book)

Long Dark Shadow is a book by Dr. Allyn Walker.

Challenging widespread assumptions that persons who are preferentially attracted to minors—often referred to as "pedophiles"—are necessarily also predators and sex offenders, this book takes readers into the lives of non-offending minor-attracted persons (MAPs). There is little research into non-offending MAPs, a group whose experiences offer valuable insights into the prevention of child abuse. Navigating guilt, shame, and fear, this universally maligned group demonstrates remarkable resilience and commitment to living without offending and to supporting and educating others. Using data from interview-based research, A Long, Dark Shadow offers a crucial account of the lived experiences of this hidden population.

Table of Contents for Long Dark Shadow

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