An exhibitionist is a person who practises exhibitionism as a psychological alteration of the human behaviour that neither implies the need to exhibit the genitalia or buttocks nor alterations of the psychiatric condition of the individual (although sometimes this occurs, see below).
In this type of exhibitionism the individual shows a tendency to an extravagant behaviour and the need to captivate the attention of others. The person can act in several forms, by competing to be the “first”, adhering to a particular fashion, ostentation (in different forms), showing him/herself in a pre-determined form, posing, being bombastic, etc. In this type of exhibitionism the above-mentioned forms can appear isolated or as a group of manifestations.
People showing this type of personality are sometimes called extravagant instead of exhibitionist. Generally this type of exhibitionism does not have legal implications, unless the individual shows an aggressive or criminal behaviour.
Sexual exhibitionism
Some exhibitionists wish to display themselves sexually to other people, singly or in groups. This can be done consensually as part of swinging or group sex.
When done without the consent of the viewer, sexual exhibitionism is generally considered to be a sexually aggressive act, and is a criminal offence in most jurisdictions (see indecent exposure). Most indecent exposure is committed by men against women viewers; men who expose themselves in this way generally do not commit more serious sexual crimes.
Some people like to expose themselves in front of large crowds, typically at sporting events — i.e. streaking.
Lisa Angelettie, M.S.W., is a psychotherapist, author, and life coach. She has been helping people make smarter life choices since 1998. Get more free tips like this when you subscribe to the GirlShrink newsletter .
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