Proud To Love promotes the belief that, "No one should be discriminated against because of their attraction to boys."
This is currently being done in the mental health industry and I suggest the article in the links section called: A pre-emptive strike in mental health
I am using the term "boy-lover" when referring to an adult who is sexually attracted to adolescent or pre-pubescent boys. My focus is on attraction because as with any sexual orientation, "attraction" is the defining factor.
Many adult males have feelings of love and affection for boys. This is often accompanied by a desire to both mentor and nurture adolescent and pre-pubescent boys. It's the sexual aspect of our fantasies and desires that make us boy-lovers.
The term "same-sex" pedophile could also be used. The only problem with this term is that the term does not distinguish between an adult’s attraction to boys or girls. Further, the term is usually understood to mean that the adult is sexual with children. . Some boy-lovers are sexual with boys and some are not.
Our society is hysterical over adult/child sex. It is often mistakenly believed. That if a person is attracted to boys that he is being sexual with boys, therefore, regardless of a boy lovers behavior he is assumed to be a criminal. This can cause depression and a lack of self esteem. Paranoia is also common. This is why the stigma surrounding our “attraction” must be removed.
Other false beliefs regarding boy-lovers are further explored in the web-site
“Male Homosexual Attraction to Minors.” It can be found in the links section of this site.
The mistaken belief that anyone who is attracted to boys is a potential danger to children. causes many boy-lovers remain silent and hidden.
Having to hide this important aspect of oneself often leads to the feeling that one is "different" in a bad way. This in turn can lead to isolation and a fear of intimacy. As human beings, however, we are all social animals, and need a sense of connection to others in order to survive. This is why the stigma surrounding a person attracted to boys must be removed.
Love.
Dennis Bejin
