From sexual abuse and fetishism to necrophilia and sadomasochism, this unique volume identifies fourteen classifications of unusual sexual pathologies. Emphasizing the physical and psychological aspects of sexuality itself, the book presents detailed comparisons of legal and medical definitions, historical aspects, current incidence, and geographical prevalence of these offenses. It also explores the potential causes, discussing etiological theories and reviewing psychopathology. Highlighting the cross-cultural nature of the forensic aspects of human sexuality, the book examines various case studies in the context of international legislation. It also covers minor aberrant behavior such as coprolalia and troilism.

Necrophilia: Forensic and Medico-legal Aspects is the first text that deals with the scientific aspects of necrophilia from a multidisciplinary point of view. After an introduction that provides a general scientific, social, and historical perspective, this volume:

• Explores causes and contributing factors, covering biological theories and genetics, as well as trauma, brain anomalies, and substance abuse
• Offers an original approach to classification, creating ten levels of severity from role playing to homicidal necrophilia
• Discusses necrophilia epidemiology, exploring offender characteristics and habits
• Provides 20 case studies of infamous as well as less publicized cases
• Details the forensics approach to necrophilia investigation
• Examines current legislation and mores across the world
• Explains the challenges involved with providing expert testimony

Designed to serve as a complete reference guide for psychiatrists, social workers, those working in law enforcement, and students of forensic medicine and psychology Understanding Necrophilia: A Global Multidisciplinary Approach features the writing of experts from around the world who share professional, cultural, social, and legal insights on the subject. This interdisciplinary text provides a balanced and applied approach to studying necrophilia, and examines the phenomenon from the perspectives of abnormal and social psychology, cultural sociology, criminology, criminal justice, forensic anthropology, medical pathology, and legal systems. Specific topics include historical, legal, definitional, and ethical issues surrounding necrophilia, its etiology, paraphilic co-morbidities, and various typologies and links to homicide. Comprehensive and ground-breaking, Understanding Necrophilia is a well-researched, fearless academic examination of a topic that is both challenging and disturbing, and the author contributions are informative yet sensitive. Understanding Necrophilia can serve as a stand-alone text and is also an excellent supplement to standard textbooks on forensic psychology, criminology, and sexual deviance.