Etiology of Exhibitionism in Adolescence: A Case Example of Countershame Theory

Exhibitionism has been diagnosed in patients during adolescence into late adulthood. Although there are multiple etiologic theories for exhibitionism, there is very little consistent empirical evidence for these theories. Multiple theories are discussed with a focus on a pattern of humiliation supporting the theory of exhibitionism as countershame, as well as components of courtship theory. This case example provides a concise report of one patient's childhood relating to exhibitionism. This example was based on an outpatient clinic chart review, an interview with the patient, and phone interviews with the patient's parents and siblings.