I am not too sure whether paedophilia is totally about sex per se.
I suspect the subterfuge, secrecy, and destruction of innocence of the victim plays a big part.
Envy even of the victims innocence. This is possibly where the often abused background of the perpetrator comes in.
Whatever, the behaviour of a paedophile is never to be condoned or hidden.
The destruction of innocence for pleasure deserves a very heavy penalty indeed. There can never be any justification for this crime.
SD

“Childhood should be carefree, playing in the sun; not living a nightmare in the darkness of the soul.” ― Dave Pelzer

Simon,
Too true.
SD

Many contributing factors have been mentioned for child abuse. I would not classify them as the basic why however. One contributing factor which is often overlooked, especially by Royal Commissions, is the effect of two world wars. I believe it caused deviations like incest and homosexuality to increase significantly. One only needs to look at what is happening in Syria now.
But I repeat, I am looking for BASIC changes to stop child abuse,, even if it means changing 2000 yr old fashion.

Laz,
Some people are just like that.
War and suchlike may diminish the crime of paedophilia due to the brutality of war itself. A few children being abused does not stand up against thousands being killed, such things may get brushed aside in a war situation and seen of little importance. War can bring out the best and the worst in us.
Where there are vulnerable children there will always be rock spiders. They blend in with their surrounds and can be very hard to identify. Sadly recidivism appears to be the norm no matter what the punishment, they are just wired that way.
SD

Rubbish!
The act is a control thing too but it is so very evil and wrong watering it down to this degree here is wrong.
Blame what you want.
But never forget the act is evil.
Again consider the victims pain not the offenders excuse.
Too reconsider your words.
Why change the conversation to world wars most offenders never lived in?
I hope, earnestly, our author is a troll, only that forgives more concern for offenders than victims