Every child has the right to grow up in a safe and loving environment—free from fear of becoming a victim of violence. Recognizing the importance of protecting children, it is crucial to encourage the public to understand efforts to prevent pedophilia.
The Faculty of Psychology at Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya (UKWMS) held an international workshop titled “The Uncomfortable Truth: Can We Predict and Prevent Pedophilia?” The event took place in the East Theater Room at the UKWMS Pakuwon City Campus on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
The keynote speaker was Professor Aureliano Pacciolla, Ph.D., an Italian forensic psychologist and psychotherapist, and recipient of the 2024 Victor Frankl Award. The workshop was attended by students, lecturers, and health and psychology practitioners concerned about child protection issues.
In her remarks, Agnes Maria Sumargi, M.Psych., Ph.D., Psychologist, the Dean of the Faculty of Psychology, expressed her honor in hosting the international speaker. She also emphasized the importance of discussing pedophilia openly, despite it being a topic that is still rarely addressed.
“This topic is unsettling, but precisely because of that, we must dare to talk about it for the sake of protecting children,” Agnes stated in her speech.
Meanwhile, Dr. F.V. Lanny Hartanti, S.Si., M.Si., Vice Rector for Academic, Student Affairs, Alumni, Innovation and Business of UKWMS, stressed that pedophilia is a morally and socially urgent issue. “This is an uncomfortable truth—one that is unpleasant, yet we must face together,” she said.
Educating Children to Recognize Risky Situations
There are several actions we can take to prevent pedophilia. Prof. Aureliano explained the strategies and educational approaches highlighted in his research, which can be applied by both parents and children.
“The first thing we can do is educate children aged 5–12 about critical and risky situations. This continues when they enter their teenage years, around ages 15–16. Second, we must teach them what to do when they encounter risky situations—including reporting immediately to a teacher or parent,” Prof. Aureliano explained.
Teaching methods may include various creative media such as illustrations, cartoons, animations, and stories that are easy for children to understand. These tools help children become more aware of and alert to their surroundings.
What, then, should be done when dealing with individuals who have pedophilic tendencies? “As psychologists and professionals, we have the responsibility to support their recovery. But full recovery is not guaranteed because this is a disorder. However, we must treat them and help regulate their emotions,” Prof. Aureliano said.
Acting as moderator, Erlyn Erawan, M.Ed., highlighted Prof. Aureliano’s explanation that the difference between normophilia and paraphilia lies in one word: consent. She emphasized that children cannot give valid consent, especially in threatening situations. “In any situation, we must have the courage to say no,” she asserted.
Through this event, the Faculty of Psychology at UKWMS hopes the public becomes more aware that pedophilia is not merely an individual problem, but a social challenge that must be confronted collectively. Openness, education, and the courage to protect children are key to prevention efforts.
Source: UKWMS
