The Development of the Paraphilic Disorders Short Screen (PDSS) and Its Examination in Diverse Populations: A Large, Multi-Nation Study

To date, there is no reliable and valid screening tool for paraphilic disorders (PDs) based on the diagnostic criteria of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). The present study aimed to develop and cross-culturally examine the cross-cultural applicability of a new screening tool for PDs following the ICD-11 guidelines. Methods: Top-down item development was conducted with expert practitioners in the field. Data were collected in 26 languages across 42 countries (N = 82,243; 39.5% men; 57.0% women; 3.4% gender-diverse; Mage = 32.39 years, SD = 12.52). Cut-off scores were established per ICD-11 guidelines, and at-risk groups were compared with low-risk groups along theoretically relevant correlates (e.g., depression, anxiety). Outcomes: The Paraphilic Disorders Short Screen (PDSS) assesses seven paraphilias via 21 items. Results: Voyeurism was most common paraphilic interest (PI) (19.42% of the total sample; n = 15,970), which also had the highest number of participants meeting the ICD-11 diagnostic cut-off (3.24%; n = 2,662). PI and PD groups consistently demonstrated more severe depression and anxiety symptoms than others. Conclusion: The PDSS is a reliable and valid screening tool that follows the latest ICD-11 guidelines; therefore, it has the capacity to enhance clinical practice and research by identifying individuals at risk.